Anna Lo MLA said: “Fuel poverty can have absolutely devastating consequences. Despite the fact that we have had serious cuts imposed on us by Westminster , government must redouble their efforts to tackle this problem.
“There can be no excuse in our modern day society for so many people facing fuel poverty.
“It is despicable that some have to face the cold because they cannot make ends meet. Government needs to deliver on the Fuel Poverty Strategy because this situation has got worse in recent years. I would also encourage older people to ensure they gain the all the benefits they are entitled to and to use the Warm Homes scheme if they meet the criteria.
“This is a matter of social justice and government must not fail older people.
“Government simply cannot let vulnerable people go into another winter with the fear of not being able to keep themselves warm.”
ENDS