“I am very disappointed that Northern Ireland Electricity is to increase its tariffs for domestic customers by more that the rate of inflation. I intend to meet with them in the near future to discuss the unacceptably high increase they have imposed on Economy 7 users.
“Although I do not control world fuel prices, tackling fuel poverty is one of my top priorities. This increase makes this task all the more difficult as it will undoubtedly result in many people finding it more difficult to pay their fuel bills.
“Through the Warm Homes Scheme, the Northern Ireland Housing Executive’s Heating Replacement Programme, the Social Security Agency’s Winter Fuel Payments and Cold Weather Payments, my Department will continue to assist the most vulnerable in society as part of a coherent Fuel Poverty Strategy.
“Grant aid is also available to replace Economy 7 heating systems in Housing Association properties with a more efficient heating system. I have asked my officials to accelerate current programmes for replacing Economy 7 heating systems in the homes of the most vulnerable people.
“It is important that everyone in the energy sector does their best within their power to protect the fuel poor and I will be urging NIE to do more.”
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