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31/07/2024
Winter Fuel Payment Restrictions 'Disappointing'
Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has described the UK government decision to restrict the Winter Fuel Payment as "disappointing".
Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced that the benefit would be restricted in an effort to save £1.5 billion per year.
Following the announcement, Minister Lyons said: "The announcement to limit the Winter Fuel Payment is disappointing news which will impact upon many in our society. For those who are less well off, it creates an additional financial burden. It also comes amid a range of cost-of-living pressures, which will be unwelcome for some and intolerable for many.
"Warmth is a necessity, not a luxury. Depriving older people of the means to heat their homes is not only difficult for pensioners facing fuel poverty but is likely to have a detrimental impact on their physical and mental health.
"I will be providing an update for my Executive colleagues in due course.
"In the meantime, I would ask everyone to check their benefit entitlements, and ensure they claim all the benefits, supports and services that are available to them. Pension Credit, in particular, is a vital top-up for those on low incomes."
Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced that the benefit would be restricted in an effort to save £1.5 billion per year.
"Warmth is a necessity, not a luxury. Depriving older people of the means to heat their homes is not only difficult for pensioners facing fuel poverty but is likely to have a detrimental impact on their physical and mental health.
"I will be providing an update for my Executive colleagues in due course.
"In the meantime, I would ask everyone to check their benefit entitlements, and ensure they claim all the benefits, supports and services that are available to them. Pension Credit, in particular, is a vital top-up for those on low incomes."
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People aged 60 or more who have not received a Winter Fuel Payment before, have been advised to check if they are eligible.
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Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:This evening will be dry. Then it will stay dry overnight with long clear periods. Some patches of mist and fog may form later in the night. Minimum temperature 11 °C.
