People at risk of having their power cut off as a result of non payment of ESB bills should seek help with their bills, according to Beverley Flynn, TD.
Deputy Flynn says that under the Supplementary Welfare Allowance Scheme, people in arrears with ESB bills have the option of applying for an Exceptional Needs Payment.
She was commenting on the disclosure that an average of 900 homes a month are being disconnected by the ESB for non payment, one fifth higher than the rate for March.
“I would urge householders in such a situation to seek help before the problem gets out of hand. There are many people who now find they are unable to pay their ESB bills. These are people with a previously good record who now find themselves under pressure and who are unable to pay out of necessity, and not by choice,” she said.
Deputy Flynn added that help was also available from the Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS ), which will advise and guide those in financial difficulty as to how best meet their obligations.
“I would also ask the ESB to show forbearance and understanding to those who genuinely find themselves unable to meet the full cost of their bills,” she said.
