Hands off the winter fuel payment - Kelly

Sinn Féin North Belfast MLA Gerry Kelly has issued a ‘hands off the winter Fuel payment’ warning after reports in the media that the British Tory/Liberal Democrat coalition plans to make changes to the winter fuel payment scheme which could see millions of people being disenfranchised from entitlement to the benefit.

“The latest reports in the media that the British Governement are planning to make changes to the winter fuel payment scheme are very worrying indeed,” said Gerry Kelly.
“Under these new proposals they intend to raise the age of entitlement for the benefit from 60 to 66-years-old and also cutting it by £50 for new recipients and £100 for the oldest - that is absolutely scandalous. 





“Those who are in genuine need of extra help and fit the criteria should get it. We can't have a situation in the coming winter months of people sitting in their homes worrying that they are going to lose their annual winter fuel payment and being left with no heat and no hot water,” said the Sinn Féin representative.

“The introduction of oil fired central heating systems in many homes was seen as step forward, but we are now seeing problems on a daily basis were people can't afford to fill their oil tanks due to rising costs.



"When people can't afford to heat their homes it will inevitably lead to more health and social problems combined with spiraling debt in already deprived communities.

“Keeping your home warm and comfortable should not become a luxury, it should be a right. Older people should not be faced with the unenviable choice of deciding whether to heat or eat.

“For our most vulnerable citizens this can often be a stark matter of life or death. The message needs to go out loud and clear - our older people need protected and keep your hands off the winter fuel payment.”