Energy poverty at its highest since 2019

Calls have been made for the government to take urgent action to help families out of energy poverty after latest figures show that 284,000 households are currently behind on their energy bills.

Responding to the latest Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) figures that show that people in energy arrears are at its highest number since 2019. Sinn Féin East Meath TD Darren O'Rourke party spokesperson on Energy said:

“It is staggering to see that 284,000 households are currently behind on their energy bills.

“This is higher than the previous record of 283,125 in March, and higher than at any time before Covid or Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

“Behind these numbers are workers and families that are under real pressure and who are dealing with the real-life consequences of 14 years of failure from Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael, including the most expensive energy prices in Europe."

Deputy O'Rourke added that the cost-of-living crisis may have slipped out of the headlines but it remains an everyday reality for people all across the state.

“The temporary measures taken by the government are not enough, they are not working," said the Meath East TD.

“We need to treat the source of the problem, the crippling high electricity prices that this government has forced upon people," he added.

“A new approach, with the state taking the lead to help deliver secure, stable and affordable prices would give much needed certainty and support to workers, families and businesses.

“Ireland needs a clean and reliable energy service that serves the people, not the profits of big energy companies.”