18/10/2005
NI poverty getting worse claims charity
Poverty levels in Northern Ireland are getting worse, a leading charity has said.
The Anti-Poverty Network said welfare cuts could only worsen an already severe situation and that while people gained tax credits, they could then lose access to free prescriptions and to free school dinners for their children.
Frances Dowds from the network said: "One of the good policies that the government has introduced is working tax credits... but what you get with one hand you lose with the other.
"Sometimes it just does not stack up and that is increasing for a lot of people in Northern Ireland."
Meanwhile, the Government has said that more than 100,000 homes have gained efficient new heating systems since 2001.
Social Development Minister David Hanson said the figures reinforced the Government’s commitment to beat the scourge of fuel poverty. He was speaking after the second meeting of the Fuel Poverty Advisory Group that he set up earlier this year.
“I am determined to do everything that I can to eradicate fuel poverty. It is a major challenge but I am especially pleased that so many more homes have been equipped with better heating systems in the last four years," he said.
(MB/GB)
The Anti-Poverty Network said welfare cuts could only worsen an already severe situation and that while people gained tax credits, they could then lose access to free prescriptions and to free school dinners for their children.
Frances Dowds from the network said: "One of the good policies that the government has introduced is working tax credits... but what you get with one hand you lose with the other.
"Sometimes it just does not stack up and that is increasing for a lot of people in Northern Ireland."
Meanwhile, the Government has said that more than 100,000 homes have gained efficient new heating systems since 2001.
Social Development Minister David Hanson said the figures reinforced the Government’s commitment to beat the scourge of fuel poverty. He was speaking after the second meeting of the Fuel Poverty Advisory Group that he set up earlier this year.
“I am determined to do everything that I can to eradicate fuel poverty. It is a major challenge but I am especially pleased that so many more homes have been equipped with better heating systems in the last four years," he said.
(MB/GB)
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20 September 2011
Gas Price Hike 'Fuels Winter Woes'
The gas supplier, Firmus Energy has ended its previously announced summer price freeze and is set to increase tariffs by over 35% from 1 October - fuelling fears over 'fuel poverty' among the most needy. It has around 8,500 customers in the greater Belfast area - compared to competitor, Phoenix Gas - that has more than 130,000.
Gas Price Hike 'Fuels Winter Woes'
The gas supplier, Firmus Energy has ended its previously announced summer price freeze and is set to increase tariffs by over 35% from 1 October - fuelling fears over 'fuel poverty' among the most needy. It has around 8,500 customers in the greater Belfast area - compared to competitor, Phoenix Gas - that has more than 130,000.
06 September 2011
Report Highlights NI Fuel Poverty
As winter approaches, measures to tackle fuel poverty in Northern Ireland over the past decade have been highlighted. A new report said this week these have been effective - but that much more needs to be done. This was the result of new research carried out by the University of Ulster.
Report Highlights NI Fuel Poverty
As winter approaches, measures to tackle fuel poverty in Northern Ireland over the past decade have been highlighted. A new report said this week these have been effective - but that much more needs to be done. This was the result of new research carried out by the University of Ulster.
02 December 2002
Claimants warned to apply early for winter fuel payments
The government has warned people who believe are eligible for Winter Fuel Payments to contact the government's helpline to ensure they can benefit from the scheme. Anyone reaching age 60 or over during the week 16-22 September 2002 will usually be entitled to a Winter Fuel Payments of £200.
Claimants warned to apply early for winter fuel payments
The government has warned people who believe are eligible for Winter Fuel Payments to contact the government's helpline to ensure they can benefit from the scheme. Anyone reaching age 60 or over during the week 16-22 September 2002 will usually be entitled to a Winter Fuel Payments of £200.
20 September 2005
Minister affirms plan for vulnerable people
Social Development Minister David Hanson MP today reaffirmed his commitment to addressing the problems faced by vulnerable people in Northern Ireland.
Minister affirms plan for vulnerable people
Social Development Minister David Hanson MP today reaffirmed his commitment to addressing the problems faced by vulnerable people in Northern Ireland.
30 November 2023
New Executive Must Prioritise Fuel Poverty Strategy – SDLP
Any new Executive must prioritise an updated fuel poverty strategy, SDLP West Belfast councillor Paul Doherty has said as he marked Fuel Poverty Awareness Day.
New Executive Must Prioritise Fuel Poverty Strategy – SDLP
Any new Executive must prioritise an updated fuel poverty strategy, SDLP West Belfast councillor Paul Doherty has said as he marked Fuel Poverty Awareness Day.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A sunny but frosty start for many. However cloud increases by midday with a few showers reaching the north coast, these mostly light but spreading inland this afternoon. Chilly. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A rather cloudy evening with scattered showers. Becoming drier through the night with some good clear spells developing and a patchy frost away from coasts. Minimum temperature 0 °C.