MINISTER FOR Energy Eamon Ryan will come under pressure in the Dáil tonight over the recent increase in electricity prices.
Domestic and business users have been paying almost 5 per cent more on their bills since the start of this month due to the imposition of a levy designed to fund wind power and subsidise peat-fuelled generating stations.
A Labour private members’ motion, to be debated over two nights, calls for the publication of a fuel poverty strategy as a matter of urgency, noting that it was scheduled to be published at the end of last year under the programme for government.
In a related development, Minister for the Environment John Gormley has rejected suggestions that he was at odds with Minister for Finance Brian Lenihan over protecting low-income households from the carbon levy.
Speaking to reporters yesterday, Mr Gormley said he was determined to make sure the carbon tax was balanced by measures to combat fuel poverty. He said he was confident this would be done in the budget, although Mr Lenihan has yet to signal his approval for such a plan.
Labour spokeswoman on energy Liz McManus said her party’s motion was prompted by high levels of disconnection in electricity and gas. “The alarming increase in disconnections, of approximately 2,500 a month, is a matter of grave concern and it is vital that there is a response to ensure that people have essential services such as electricity and gas in their homes,” she added.
The Dáil will vote on the motion tomorrow night.
Last week, Fine Gael used private members’ time to move a motion on hospital services. The Government defeated it by 77 votes to 73, and is expected to have a similar majority this week.