12,856 Meath household to benefit from Fuel Allowance Scheme

12,856 households across Meath now qualify for the Fuel Allowance scheme commencing today which aims to help people heat their homes.

The scheme has now been extended so more households can avail ahead of this Winter with 410,000 households to benefit from the Fuel Allowance.

Speaking on the commencement of the scheme, Minister Thomas Byrne TD said “I am delighted that this scheme will now benefit more households than ever before, with nearly 13,000 of those households in my own constituency."

Fuel Allowance will be paid for 28 weeks, but households have a choice of how it will be paid, through a weekly rate of €33 or if they prefer, by way of two instalment payments of €462.

“I am delighted that Minister Calleary has extended the Fuel Allowance to people over the age of 66, and they do not need to be receiving a Social Welfare payment to qualify," Minister Byrne said. "The qualification of those receiving Carer’s Allowance is critical also, subject to a means test.