€130 million has been allocated for new energy efficiency programmes under the Government's Capital Investment Plan.

Minister for Energy Alex White confirmed the additional funding means €440 million is to be spent on the programmes over the coming years.

Minister White said: "Our intention is to leverage the experience of trusted health professionals to reach people who may be unaware of opportunities like the Warmer Homes Scheme, which could make a big difference to their health and their wealth."

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Minister White also pressed energy suppliers to pass on reductions in wholesale energy prices to consumers.

Meanwhile, the Government's broader programme was helping address energy poverty by improving incomes through job creation, an increased minimum wage, and the phased restoration of child benefit.

He said 300,000 households had so far benefitted from Government-supported energy efficiency upgrades.

(CD)