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31/07/2024
Winter Fuel Payment Restrictions 'Disappointing'
Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has described the UK government decision to restrict the Winter Fuel Payment as "disappointing".
Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced that the benefit would be restricted in an effort to save £1.5 billion per year.
Following the announcement, Minister Lyons said: "The announcement to limit the Winter Fuel Payment is disappointing news which will impact upon many in our society. For those who are less well off, it creates an additional financial burden. It also comes amid a range of cost-of-living pressures, which will be unwelcome for some and intolerable for many.
"Warmth is a necessity, not a luxury. Depriving older people of the means to heat their homes is not only difficult for pensioners facing fuel poverty but is likely to have a detrimental impact on their physical and mental health.
"I will be providing an update for my Executive colleagues in due course.
"In the meantime, I would ask everyone to check their benefit entitlements, and ensure they claim all the benefits, supports and services that are available to them. Pension Credit, in particular, is a vital top-up for those on low incomes."
Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced that the benefit would be restricted in an effort to save £1.5 billion per year.
Following the announcement, Minister Lyons said: "The announcement to limit the Winter Fuel Payment is disappointing news which will impact upon many in our society. For those who are less well off, it creates an additional financial burden. It also comes amid a range of cost-of-living pressures, which will be unwelcome for some and intolerable for many.
"Warmth is a necessity, not a luxury. Depriving older people of the means to heat their homes is not only difficult for pensioners facing fuel poverty but is likely to have a detrimental impact on their physical and mental health.
"I will be providing an update for my Executive colleagues in due course.
"In the meantime, I would ask everyone to check their benefit entitlements, and ensure they claim all the benefits, supports and services that are available to them. Pension Credit, in particular, is a vital top-up for those on low incomes."
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20 September 2011
Gas Price Hike 'Fuels Winter Woes'
The gas supplier, Firmus Energy has ended its previously announced summer price freeze and is set to increase tariffs by over 35% from 1 October - fuelling fears over 'fuel poverty' among the most needy. It has around 8,500 customers in the greater Belfast area - compared to competitor, Phoenix Gas - that has more than 130,000.
Gas Price Hike 'Fuels Winter Woes'
The gas supplier, Firmus Energy has ended its previously announced summer price freeze and is set to increase tariffs by over 35% from 1 October - fuelling fears over 'fuel poverty' among the most needy. It has around 8,500 customers in the greater Belfast area - compared to competitor, Phoenix Gas - that has more than 130,000.
14 October 2013
Applicants Encouraged For Winter Fuel Payment
The Department for Social Development is urging people born on or before 5 January 1952, who have not received a Winter Fuel Payment before, to pick up the phone and check if they are eligible.
Applicants Encouraged For Winter Fuel Payment
The Department for Social Development is urging people born on or before 5 January 1952, who have not received a Winter Fuel Payment before, to pick up the phone and check if they are eligible.
21 September 2005
Over 60's urged not to miss out on fuel payments
People aged 60 or more who have not received a Winter Fuel Payment before, have been advised to check if they are eligible.
Over 60's urged not to miss out on fuel payments
People aged 60 or more who have not received a Winter Fuel Payment before, have been advised to check if they are eligible.
02 December 2002
Claimants warned to apply early for winter fuel payments
The government has warned people who believe are eligible for Winter Fuel Payments to contact the government's helpline to ensure they can benefit from the scheme. Anyone reaching age 60 or over during the week 16-22 September 2002 will usually be entitled to a Winter Fuel Payments of £200.
Claimants warned to apply early for winter fuel payments
The government has warned people who believe are eligible for Winter Fuel Payments to contact the government's helpline to ensure they can benefit from the scheme. Anyone reaching age 60 or over during the week 16-22 September 2002 will usually be entitled to a Winter Fuel Payments of £200.
16 September 2022
Hargey Urged To Review Winter Fuel Payment Rate
The SDLP has called for urgent action from Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey to review the current rate of the Winter Fuel Payment. Foyle MLA Mark H Durkan has said that Minister Hargey has the power to review the amount provided to pensioner households, yet the rate has not changed since 2010/11.
Hargey Urged To Review Winter Fuel Payment Rate
The SDLP has called for urgent action from Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey to review the current rate of the Winter Fuel Payment. Foyle MLA Mark H Durkan has said that Minister Hargey has the power to review the amount provided to pensioner households, yet the rate has not changed since 2010/11.
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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.
