Alliance have called for clarity surrounding NI energy support payments.
The £400 payment will apply directly to households in England, Scotland and Wales and will be made in six monthly instalments.
It has not yet been decided how to make the payments to households in Northern Ireland. Alliance Communities spokesperson Kellie Armstrong MLA said that clarification needs to be given on how people in Northern Ireland will benefit from energy support payments.
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The Strangford MLA was speaking after details were revealed regarding the £400 scheme in Great Britain. Ms Armstrong said uncertainty remained at what would happen in Northern Ireland due to the lack of an Executive.
She said: “With repeated energy company price increases, households are concerned how they will be able to afford to heat their homes this winter.
“The proposed £400 energy support scheme provided some hope for homes. But without a functioning Executive working to take decisions, we remain unclear as to how the support payments will be made here this autumn.
“Questions remain around issues, including if the money is paid to energy companies, how will the public see the benefit? Or will tenants who pay electric money to a landlord be able to see if it has been applied further?
“Northern Ireland is being left behind because of the lack of a government. The DUP needs to end its boycott, allow the formation of an Executive and let us gain clarity for these support schemes.”
The £400 discount, administered by energy suppliers, will be paid to GB consumers over 6 months with payments starting from October 2022, to ensure households receive financial support throughout the winter months.
Those with a domestic electricity meter point paying for their energy via standard credit, payment card and direct debit will receive an automatic deduction to their bills over the 6 month period – totalling £400.
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