More people in Galway will be able to apply to the Better Energy Warmer Homes Scheme now that the Government has extended it to homeowners on social welfare.
The free home insulation service was previously only available to homeowners in receipt of fuel allowance. However this has now been extended to those on Job Seekers Allowance, Family Income Support, and those in receipt of Fuel Allowance. The scheme is administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland.
The news has been welcomed by Labour Galway West TD Derek Nolan, who is encouraging Galwegians eligible for the scheme to apply.
The service involves the installation of standard energy efficiency measures at no cost to the household. The measures include attic insulation, draught proofing, lagging jackets, low energy light bulbs, cavity wall insulation, and energy advice.
The scheme is available to homes which are owner-occupied and constructed before 2002. Those eligible to apply are people in receipt of Job Seekers Allowance for more than six months and have a child under seven; those on the Family Income Supplement; in receipt of Fuel Allowance as part of the National Fuel Scheme; or who cannot reside in a local authority home.
Dep Nolan said First Class Insulation is the only community based organisation in County Galway providing this service and can be contacted on 091 - 760877.
