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Fuel Poverty

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 June 2025

Tuesday, 24 June 2025

Questions (220)

Roderic O'Gorman

Roderic O'Gorman

Roderic O'Gorman

Question:

220. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if an organisation (details supplied) which works to address issues of energy poverty, would be suitable for inclusion on the Cross Governmental Task Force on Energy Affordability; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33717/25]

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Written answers

Darragh O'Brien

Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment

The Government has made a number of important commitments in respect of addressing the continued high cost of energy. The Programme for Government 2025 acknowledges the increased energy cost pressures on households and businesses and commits to bringing forward measures to help contain energy costs. Earlier this year, the Government approved an extension of the 9% VAT rate currently applied to gas and electricity by a further six months to October 2025 at an estimated cost of €85 million.

A Cross Government Energy Affordability Taskforce has been established by my Department to identify, assess and implement measures that will enhance energy affordability for households and businesses while delivering key renewable commitments and protecting security of supply and economic stability. I chaired the first meeting of the Taskforce on 19 June. The membership is comprised of representatives from the following organisations:

• Department of the Taoiseach

• Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment

• Department of Finance

• Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Sector Reform and Digitalisation

• Department of Social Protection

• Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage

• Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU)

• Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI)

• The Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI)

• ESB Networks

• EirGrid

• Gas Networks Ireland

The Taskforce's work programme will be supported by a process of ongoing engagement with relevant stakeholders, including industry bodies, suppliers, social enterprises such as EnergyCloud and other non-governmental organisations. A formal consultation process is planned for Q3, 2025 to ensure that Taskforce priorities are shaped by public and stakeholder input.

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