More than 400,000 households nationwide are set to begin receiving the fuel allowance starting Monday. The allowance, designed to help with heating costs, is paid weekly at a rate of €33 or in two lump sums of €462 each.
Eligibility for the allowance includes individuals over the age of 70 with a weekly income below €512, or €1,024 for couples. Those under 70 can qualify if they receive a relevant social welfare payment.
The fuel allowance will run for 28 weeks, covering the period from late September to April.
Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys is considering expanding the fuel allowance in the upcoming October budget, with plans to lower the qualifying age from 70 to 66.
Humphreys emphasised her concern for elderly individuals hesitant to heat their homes due to rising costs.
Additional social welfare measures are also being explored for the upcoming budget, including two rounds of double payments for long-term social welfare recipients. The Government is expected to issue its traditional Christmas bonus in December, with another potential double payment in October.
