SDLP Social Justice Spokesperson Mark H Durkan has criticised the failure by successive Communities Ministers to reviews the rate of Winter Fuel Payment.
In response to Mr Durkan’s Assembly Question, the Department for Communities revealed that the rate of payment has not been reviewed since 2010/2011.
Although the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) administer the scheme, DfC hold the powers to set the rate.
Mr Durkan has called on current Minister, Deirdre Hargey to take action to increase the payment amount in line with the rising fuel prices.
Said the Foyle MLA: “It beggars belief that at amid a fuel crisis and given the predicted exponential increase in costs, the Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey has not seen fit to review, never mind increase, the rate of Winter Fuel Payment to assist elderly individuals to heat their homes in the months ahead.
“In response to my Assembly Question, it was revealed that shockingly the rate of payment for Winter Fuel support has remained stagnant for over a decade.
“The local economy and people’s financial situation has changed drastically over the course of a year never mind ten.
“Inaction on the matter is cause for concern, given the economic fallout of the Covid crisis and the rising costs of living.
“Minister Hargey’s age old tactic of shifting the blame to the Department for Work and Pensions won’t fly in this instance.
“She has rolled out the same rhetoric issue after issue and although DWP may administer the Winter Fuel Payment, responsibility to instigate an uplift in payment lays at the Minister’s door.
“There is an onus on Minister Hargey to act; to present a case for the Executive to increase this payment to support pensioners, one of the most at risk demographics in terms of fuel poverty.
“The reality remains that while the focus for many people will be on preparation for the festive period, many vulnerable, elderly individuals will be forced to choose between heating or eating in the months ahead.
“Unfortunately, the comfort of a warm home is not a luxury afforded to all.
“I acknowledge that any increase in the Winter Fuel provision will require Executive approval however, the Minister hasn’t bothered to bring a proposal to the table in the first place.
“I would urge her to review the Winter Fuel Payment rate as soon as possible.”
Tags: