More than 18,000 households across Galway were helped to cover the costs of paying to heat their homes last winter, through the National Fuel Scheme.
A total of 18,886 in the city and county received fuel allowance payments through the scheme last winter, and, since Monday, have automatically received the payment again as long as their eligibility remains the same.
The fuel allowance, which is means tested, will be paid for 28 weeks to an estimated 370,000 households across the State. Recipients are paid at a week rate of €28 or two payments of €392 each.
“The scheme plays a vital role in ensuring that families across Galway have the security in knowing they will be able to pay their heating bills over the winter months,” said Fine Gael Senator Seán Kyne. “Itt will be especially important to people this year in the context of rising fuel costs globally.”
Sen Kyne is also urging those “who need this scheme”, but who have not applied previously, to submit an application “immediately”. Applications are available through local Intreo Centres, post offices, or on the Department of Social Protection website.
