Senator Marc Mac Sharry has urged all of those all eligible for free home insulation to immediately register with the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland.

The Sligo Senator explained: "It seems that following government cut backs and the resulting low uptake of the Better Energy Home Scheme, the budget has been transferred to the 'Better Energy Warmer Home Scheme'. This means that any family in receipt of Fuel Allowance, Job Seekers Allowance with a child under 7 years, or in receipt of Family Income Support are eligible to have their house insulated free of charge.

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"Questions must be asked about why all eligible families were not properly informed, particularly as we head into the cold winter. I understand that only certain families in both Limerick and Dublin were formally informed of their eligibility by the State. Why is this? Surely all of those who qualify in all counties should be told of their entitlement so they too can benefit from this scheme.

"Minister Pat Rabbitte and the CEO of Sustainable Energy Ireland Brian Motherway should immediately clarify why only certain areas were targeted for information about this scheme, and why families in the other 24 counties were ignored. While details are on the website, I believe it’s wrong that some people were directly informed in writing at the potential expense of others.

"I am urging ALL eligible families in Sligo and across the North West to immediately contact the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland on 1800 250 204 to register. People must register within the next week to qualify for free works including attic insulation, draught proofing, lagging jackets, low energy light bulbs, cavity wall insulation and indeed further energy advice."

(CD)