Give fuel allowance all year round suggests Laois councillor

'People with permanent physical disabilites find it difficult to keep warm'

A Laois councillor says people with disabilities should get the free fuel allowance all year round.

Fine Gael Cllr Barry Walsh, who represents the Portlaoise Municipal District, has asked Laois County Council to send his request to the Minister for Social Protection.

"I attended a discussion group with the Irish Wheelchair Assocation. When people have limited mobility, there is a decrease in blood circulation so they have difficulty maintaining body heat.

"This is an easy ask. I hope it is looked upon favourably by the Minister," he said.

He tabled a motion on it to the March meeting of Laois County Council. It requests Minister Dara Calleary to increase the winter fuel allowance to 52 weeks a year, for those with permanent physical disabilities.

Cllr Caroline Dwane Stanley seconded.

"I would ask that senior citizens be included as well, the over 66s. I know that the cost of electric heating has gone through the roof, literally," she said.

A letter will be sent to the Department of Social Protection.