Foyle DUP MLA Gary Middleton
Said Mr Middleton: “In the past few years, household bills, energy and heating costs have been continually increasing.
“This has been putting pressure on hard working families, those unable to work and many who are already struggling to make ends meet.
“The latest price increase announced by Firmus Energy is another significant blow to my constituents in the midst of a cost of living crisis.
“The increase in gas prices by one third is completely unacceptable.
“This will have a devastating impact on household budgets. It will add an extra £5.95 per week on to the average household bill.
“In the past 48 hours my office has been contacted by dozens of constituents who are deeply concerned about having to make the choice between heating their homes and providing food for their families.
“The recent £100 Emergency Fuel Heating Scheme has provided some help however the criteria excluded many working families.
“Those families continually miss out on multiple layers of support when the eligibility criteria is linked to other benefits rather than assessed need.
“Whilst I appreciate that the gas price increase is outside of the Minister for Communities control, I have written to her, calling for her department to bring forward support to help those affected and to do everything within her power as Minister for Communities to tackle this cost of living crisis.
“Action is needed now.”
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