SDLP Derry City Councillor Angela Dobbins has welcomed the news that fuel allowances of up to £100 are to be issued by the Social Security Agency by the week commencing 20 February 2012.

Cllr Dobbins said: "It will come as a great relief to many people that these fuel payments are going to be made before the end of this month.

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"The ever increasing cost of heating our homes is becoming a heavy burden on people across our community with many families, elderly and vulnerable people struggling to make ends meet on a daily basis.

"Those on Pension Credit and Income Support will receive this payment in the same way as they receive their benefit payments, while Jobseekers Allowance and Employment Support Allowance customers will receive a cheque payment through the post.

"While this allowance is welcome, it is vital that government comes forward with more innovative, sustainable measures to reduce fuel poverty in Derry and throughout the North."

(CD/GK)