Responding to the recent price increase announced by Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE), Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie has publicised her disappointment in the NIE increasing its tariffs for domestic customers by more than the rate of inflation.

She also said she is due to meet with them in the near future to discuss the "unacceptably high increase" that Economy 7 users will experience.

"Although I do not control world fuel prices, tackling fuel poverty is one of my top priorities. This increase makes this task all the more difficult as it will undoubtedly result in many people finding it more difficult to pay their fuel bills," the Minister said.

-- Advertisement --

"Through the Warm Homes Scheme, the Northern Ireland Housing Executive’s Heating Replacement Programme, the Social Security Agency’s Winter Fuel Payments and Cold Weather Payments, my Department will continue to assist the most vulnerable in society as part of a coherent Fuel Poverty Strategy.

"Grant aid is also available to replace Economy 7 heating systems in Housing Association properties with a more efficient heating system. I have asked my officials to accelerate current programmes for replacing Economy 7 heating systems in the homes of the most vulnerable."

Ms Ritchie concluded: "It is important that everyone in the energy sector does their best within their power to protect the fuel poor and I will be urging the NIE to do more."

(JM)