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30/11/2010
Freezing Conditions Trigger Cold Weather Cash
The Social Security Agency will now pay special cold weather allowances to qualifying customers in NI after the severe cold weather triggered the first of this winter's Cold Weather Payments.
This cash is available when the average temperature is recorded or forecast to be zero degrees Celsius, or below, for a period of seven consecutive days.
A total of £1.3million will be paid to people who qualify for the payment in postcode areas covered by the Met Office's Castlederg, Glenanne and Katesbridge weather stations.
The postcode areas affected are BT24-26, 30-35, 60-71, 78-79 and 81-82. Customers can expect to receive their payment on Wednesday 1 December.
Social Development Minister, Alex Attwood, said: "This £25 payment is a help for people in need, especially at a time when they are facing uncertainty over how the UK Government will support them in the future.
"As the temperature continues to fall it is important that we do all we can to make sure that those most in need in Northern Ireland are kept warm and comfortable in their homes."
However, only those qualifying customers living in these postcodes will receive the £25 payment.
Yesterday, an MLA and Stormont Junior Minister, Robin Newton commented on the wintry conditions: "Reports highlighting needless pensioner deaths over winter cold periods and the potential for an increase in the number of deaths due to the economic downturn are very worrying.
"I would urge all senior citizens to make certain they are getting all the allowances they are entitled to; ensure they get their flu jab from the doctor; eat a warm meal each day; reduce energy costs as much as possible by closing doors keeping one room warm and wrap up well before going out," said the east Belfast DUP politician, who also urged neighbours to "spare a few minutes by popping next door to check on older people - it could also save a life", he concluded.
Meanwhile, schools in many parts of Northern Ireland are again closed today as a result of the severe weather conditions which have swept the country.
(BMcC/GK)
This cash is available when the average temperature is recorded or forecast to be zero degrees Celsius, or below, for a period of seven consecutive days.
A total of £1.3million will be paid to people who qualify for the payment in postcode areas covered by the Met Office's Castlederg, Glenanne and Katesbridge weather stations.
The postcode areas affected are BT24-26, 30-35, 60-71, 78-79 and 81-82. Customers can expect to receive their payment on Wednesday 1 December.
Social Development Minister, Alex Attwood, said: "This £25 payment is a help for people in need, especially at a time when they are facing uncertainty over how the UK Government will support them in the future.
"As the temperature continues to fall it is important that we do all we can to make sure that those most in need in Northern Ireland are kept warm and comfortable in their homes."
However, only those qualifying customers living in these postcodes will receive the £25 payment.
Yesterday, an MLA and Stormont Junior Minister, Robin Newton commented on the wintry conditions: "Reports highlighting needless pensioner deaths over winter cold periods and the potential for an increase in the number of deaths due to the economic downturn are very worrying.
"I would urge all senior citizens to make certain they are getting all the allowances they are entitled to; ensure they get their flu jab from the doctor; eat a warm meal each day; reduce energy costs as much as possible by closing doors keeping one room warm and wrap up well before going out," said the east Belfast DUP politician, who also urged neighbours to "spare a few minutes by popping next door to check on older people - it could also save a life", he concluded.
Meanwhile, schools in many parts of Northern Ireland are again closed today as a result of the severe weather conditions which have swept the country.
(BMcC/GK)
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14 December 2022
Cold Weather Payments Extended To 12 More Post Code Areas
The Department for Communities has announced that the Cold Weather Payments have been extended to 12 more postcode areas bringing the total number of areas affected over the past week to 31.
Cold Weather Payments Extended To 12 More Post Code Areas
The Department for Communities has announced that the Cold Weather Payments have been extended to 12 more postcode areas bringing the total number of areas affected over the past week to 31.
13 December 2022
Cold Weather Payments Extended To 11 More Postcode Areas
The Department for Communities has announced the extension of the Cold Weather Payments to eleven more postcode areas as temperatures remain at freezing point and below in some areas.
Cold Weather Payments Extended To 11 More Postcode Areas
The Department for Communities has announced the extension of the Cold Weather Payments to eleven more postcode areas as temperatures remain at freezing point and below in some areas.
10 March 2023
Yellow Weather Warning For Ice Issued Across NI
A number of schools across Northern Ireland are closed due to the heavy snow. A list of school closures is available here. The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for ice which will remain in place until 10 am on Saturday, 11 March. Translink has also made changes to a number of its bus services.
Yellow Weather Warning For Ice Issued Across NI
A number of schools across Northern Ireland are closed due to the heavy snow. A list of school closures is available here. The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for ice which will remain in place until 10 am on Saturday, 11 March. Translink has also made changes to a number of its bus services.
04 March 2004
Cold weather payments triggered by winter freeze
Around 36,000 people in Mid Ulster and south east Down are to receive a Cold Weather Payment, following the recent cold spell over the last week.
Cold weather payments triggered by winter freeze
Around 36,000 people in Mid Ulster and south east Down are to receive a Cold Weather Payment, following the recent cold spell over the last week.
30 January 2004
Winter weather triggers cold weather payments
Cold Weather Payments are to be paid to approximately 36,000 people in the Mid Ulster and South Eastern regions of Northern Ireland. The announcement by the Department for Social Development today follows the recent low temperatures recorded over the last week in certain areas of the province.
Winter weather triggers cold weather payments
Cold Weather Payments are to be paid to approximately 36,000 people in the Mid Ulster and South Eastern regions of Northern Ireland. The announcement by the Department for Social Development today follows the recent low temperatures recorded over the last week in certain areas of the province.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
