Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Michael Moynihan TD, has expressed his concern at the announcement that Bord Gáis has been granted another price increase by the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER).

Deputy Moynihan commented: "This is the third major gas price increase in 2 years and it sets alarm bells ringing particularly in relation to the fact that 20,000 households in Ireland either had their gas or electricity cut off last year.

"The role of Minister Pat Rabbitte must also be called into question here, he has taken little or no interest in the rising costs of energy over the past couple of years. In fact, since this Government came to power gas prices will have increased by almost €300 per year for households when the latest price increase comes into effect next month. Minister Rabbitte's refusal to engage with the Regulator on the issue is inexplicable.

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"Earlier this year Bord Gáis announced that profits had increased by 29%. To seek and be granted further price increases in this context raises some very serious questions.

"There is no fairness in hiking gas prices when so many customers are in arrears. Gas disconnections rose by 82% in 2012, with the winter fast approaching families will have to do without heat and electricity because they cannot afford to pay their bills. The CER's answer is to grant another price increase while the Minister, who has never been afraid to give his opinion, is remarkably silent."

(CD/JP)