SDLP Economy and Energy spokesperson Patsy McGlone has called on the Minister for Social Development to look at offering the Green Deal launched today in England and Wales, to homeowners in the north.

Under the Green Deal, householders are to be offered long-term loans to spend on energy-saving improvements, such as double-glazing, insulation and new heating systems. This loan will be provided with no up-front costs.

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The Mid-Ulster MLA said: "Under this scheme, people will be given help to make their homes more energy efficient. This will cut their heating bills, cut their carbon emission and the associated improvement work will help create jobs within the construction and energy sectors.

"I would urge the Minister for Social Development to look closely at this scheme in terms of the benefits it provides.

"However the reality is that energy prices will continue to rise and households will be held to ransom unless we move in a serious way towards renewable energy sources."

(CD)