Ireland's energy utility companies have come under pressure to introduce workable solutions to support customers with financial difficulties.

This plea from Sinn Féin comes as the coronavirus epidemic continues to spread across the country, causing a lot of businesses to close or work remotely.

Electric Ireland has committed to suspend all disconnections for the next four weeks in light on the ongoing situation.

Sinn Féin representative David Cullinane TD called for practical solutions to be implemented in this "unprecedented time".

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"I am calling on all utilities to work closely with their customers in these difficult times and as a first step all disconnections should be stopped in the time ahead," Deputy Cullinane said.

"I welcome a commitment from Electric Ireland that they will suspend disconnections for a period of four weeks. However, this may need to be extended further.

"It is vital that people have access to electricity at all times. Many people will be working from home for some time to come and it is also important that all non-essential maintenance work be postponed. Vital maintenance may still be required to ensure no unscheduled outages but non-essential work should be stopped.

"Measures should also be put in place to support pay as you go electricity meter customers. Continuation of electricity to all will be vital in the time ahead."

(CM/MH)