Galway-Roscommon TD Claire Kerrane has said that the government is failing rural communities through its inaction on home heating oil costs.
She said that the government’s announcement of VAT cuts on gas and electricity will not provide the cost of living supports that rural communities need.
“The temporary cut in VAT on fuel bills from May to October will apply only to gas and electricity, but does not include home heating oil,” said Deputy Kerrane.
“The government has missed an opportunity to take a vital step to support people affected by the cost of living crisis.”
The Sinn Féin TD said that all measures to help households with soaring costs are welcome, but that it is concerning the Government have chosen to exclude home heating oil from the VAT relief.
She said that this move will disproportionately impact older people and rural households.
“We know that these groups are under huge financial pressure already and the government should have been taking steps to give them more support.
“The Government have hailed the measures announced today as offsetting carbon tax increases due to kick in on May 1st. They are essentially giving with one hand and taking with the other.
“The cost of home heating oil has doubled in recent months, the upcoming carbon tax increase will add to these costs and there are no supports to deal with this reality.
“People are under huge financial pressure due to the out of control cost of living crisis. The Government needs to act urgently to ensure people get the support they need now.”
