Electric Ireland has been called to reverse its decision after the company announced that energy prices for consumers are to increase from October.

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Climate Action, Communications Networks and Transport Darren O'Rourke called for a freeze on energy prices during the Covid-19 pandemic.

He said: "The last six months have been incredibly difficult for people, with many losing their jobs and seeing their household income collapse.

-- Advertisement --

"Families are really struggling to make ends meet, with hundreds of thousands of people reliant on state income support, and many others working reduced hours.

"The last thing people can afford now is higher electricity bills as we move into the winter.

"This move by Electric Ireland will add further financial pressure to families and we believe a freeze on energy prices during the current Covid-19 pandemic should be introduced.

"The government are also planning a significant hike in the carbon tax in the upcoming budget, which will further increase the energy bills of families when they can least afford it.

"I would urge Electric Ireland to reverse this decision, given the current unprecedented challenges people and businesses are now facing."