Sinn Féin is calling on the Government to take more action on helping people who are living in fuel poverty.

Deputy Michael Colreavy, Sinn Féin spokesperson on Communications, Energy and Natural Resources said more needs to be done to help the fuel poor.

Deputy Colreavy said: "While it is welcome to see a small rise in the fuel allowance, there has to be more action on helping those who are fuel poor.

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"However, as energy prices for domestic customers have risen by approximately 25% since 2009, the real value of these payments has fallen.

"Up until 2009 the Fuel Allowance was increased annually by a means of increasing the weekly payment and increasing the number of weeks paid.

"This level of payment was then maintained until 2012, when the number of weeks paid was reduced from 32 to 26, reducing the annual value of the Fuel Allowance by €120.

"Therefore the cuts imposed by this government have not been reversed."

(CD/MH)