The SDLP is calling for the Winter Fuel Payment in Northern Ireland to increase to £500.

Currently people receiving the state pension can expect up to £300 to contribute to their heating bills.

SDLP East Belfast Candidate Mary Muldoon has voiced her support for the SDLP Manifesto pledge and confirmed there 600 people died last winter because of issues relating to cold temperatures.

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She said: "The British Government must come to recognise reality that it can get much colder here than in London and that the Winter Fuel Payment needs to reflect this. Those receiving the state pension can expect up to £300 to contribute to their heating bills. This is woefully inadequate and must be increased to at least £500.

"The current low allowance is putting people in a position where they must decide whether to buy food or fuel. Through their inability to keep pace with the situation on the ground the Government are putting lives in danger. SDLP MPs will fight to have the Winter Fuel Payment increased to a level that will effectively combat fuel poverty among older people."

(CD/MH)