01/08/2008

Government Moves To Counter Energy Price Rise

The Government is to introduce a counter measure to tackle the recently announced energy price hike.

While the Electricity Supply Board announced on Thursday it would be introducing a 17.5% price increase on low-income families, the Social and Family Affairs Minister Mary Hanafin has announced a 16% increase in the fuel allowance to bring it to €540 per annum.

The latest electricity hike, is being blamed on the soaring energy market and rising cost of oil, and will add up to €30 to the average two-monthly bill.

Bord Gáis is due to increase gas bills by 20% on September 1.

Ms Hanafin said: "Any increase in fuel affects everyone right across society, increasing both households and business costs. My priority is to ensure that those who most need help with rising energy costs get that support from the Government."

Over 358,000 qualify for electricity and gas allowances, including pensioners and other households through the Household Benefits package.

The ESB had been hoping for an increase of up to 30% but the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) approved just 17.5%.

(DW)(BMcC)

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