Irish households could be in for a boost this Christmas and in the New Year as Leo Varadkar hints at two cash boosts to curb the cost of energy bills.
The Budget 2023 announcement is nearing and the final decisions on where appropriate supports can be implemented are being finalised.
Although confirmation has not yet been given on energy credit, Varadkar today said he was very aware that high utility bills would be landing "every few months."
READ MORE: Bonus energy payment to soften bills blow before Christmas
He acknowledged that giving families a boost at Christmas may not be enough as there is no indication for how long this energy crisis will continue.
He said: "It won't be enough, in my view, just to help people before Christmas. People will need help after Christmas as well, perhaps throughout next year."
Earlier this week, Minister Eamon Ryan confirmed that households would be getting another energy bill credit before Christmas - likely €200, which was also handed out back in April.
Speaking on RTÉ's Morning Ireland, Mr. Varadkar suggested that price caps are not being ruled out just yet, however, he did warn that the caps seen in the UK will be paid for with higher taxes at a later date.
The Tánaise then said Fine Gael was focusing on the action that can be taken to help households with energy bills, an income tax package to help working people, and targeted help for the most vulnerable.
He said, "helping with energy bills" is the focal point among these priorities as he explained that the approach to this crisis must be "enough" to save businesses and reassure vulnerable members of society as well.
The Budget announcement will take place on September 27, when the public will learn the main changes in taxation, social welfare, health, housing, education, employment, and other areas.
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