Reports of the latest SSE Airtricity price hikes have come under severe criticism.

The new data revealed the gas prices in NI will increase by almost 22% for October.

Sinn Féin MLA Caoimhe Archibald has slammed the price hikes, which are set to add, on average, another £122 onto the typical household bill.

"Such a huge increase will undoubtedly push more and more struggling families into fuel poverty and increase the number of people who have to make the choice between heating and eating," said MLA Archibald.

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"It is particularly concerning given that it comes as we enter winter when the demand for gas will significantly increase.

"I have written to the utility regulator highlighting my concern on the scale of the increases announced today and urging him to ensure energy companies are doing everything they can to cut the costs passed on to customers.

"These hikes in energy costs will hit those already least able to afford it, the hardest."