Councillors in Derry have warned that funding announced by the British government for households reliant on home heating oil “doesn’t even touch the surface” of the financial pressures facing families.
The criticism comes after support measures were outlined to help households cope with rising energy costs, particularly in areas where homes depend on oil rather than mains gas.
Elected representatives in Derry said many households across Northern Ireland/The North continue to struggle with the cost of heating, especially during colder months when demand increases.
They argued that the level of financial support being provided falls far short of what is required to meet the scale of the problem.
Heating oil is widely used across rural and urban areas in Northern Ireland/The North, leaving many households exposed to fluctuating global oil prices.
Councillors said recent price increases have placed significant strain on family budgets, with some households forced to limit heating use or delay refilling oil tanks.
Speaking about the issue, councillors warned that current support packages are insufficient to provide meaningful relief.
They said the funding “doesn’t even touch the surface” of the costs people are now facing, particularly those on low incomes or fixed budgets.
The issue has become a major concern for many residents, with community representatives reporting growing levels of hardship linked to energy costs.
Calls have been made for additional financial support measures to better reflect the realities faced by households dependent on oil heating.
Energy affordability remains a key political issue across Northern Ireland/The North, with pressure mounting on governments to address rising costs.
Councillors have urged further action to ensure vulnerable households are adequately supported as energy prices continue to fluctuate.
Source: https://www.derryjournal.com/lifestyle/money/british-governments-home-heating-oil-funding-an-insult-to-struggling-families-derry-councillors-6025171
