Sinn Féin TD for Dublin South West Seán Crowe has welcomed the announcement that the Fuel Allowance scheme is to be extended by four weeks, saying that “at this time of such uncertainty, this will remove a great worry for hundreds of thousands, especially older people who are now cocooning”.

The scheme will now run until 8th of May.

Teachta Crowe said:

“This is a very positive move by government and will be one less worry for families and individuals eligible.
“Practically the entire State has been asked to remain at home and stay indoors as much as is possible. This creates a huge drain on the household heating budget where previously it was on only when the person was at home. It is also welcome for Carers, those with special needs or an impairment, or parents with young children or individuals currently forced to stay indoors because of this virus.

“It is vital that we support people to be safe and warm when we are asking them to stay at home especially now.

“I am very pleased to see that the common sense approach put forward by Sinn Féin in the Dáil has prevailed. This is just one example of why the Dáil must continue to meet so that there is a consensus approach to dealing with the COVID-19 crisis.

“By working collectively, we can achieve the best solutions and minimise the impact of these unprecedented measures in a way that takes all of our citizens into account. I am glad common sense has been applied as extending the fuel allowance was the right thing to do.”