Calls for a Cold Weather Payment for severe weather to be introduced
In Northern Ireland, the Cold Weather Payment scheme kicks in when the temperature falls below zero degrees for seven days.
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In Northern Ireland, the Cold Weather Payment scheme kicks in when the temperature falls below zero degrees for seven days.
In total, an extra €22.50 will be paid to over 368,000 households.
The decision means that fuel allowance recipients will now automatically receive €45 for this week instead of the usual €22.50.
The technical glitch that caused the issue has been resolved.
The Department of Social Protection said it was investigating the matter.
Sinn Féin has claimed that many of the nation’s most vulnerable are being left out in the cold.
The 410,000 people in receipt of the weekly €20 allowance will be given the allowance for an extra week.
At their winter meeting, the Irish Bishops’ Conference welcomes the U-turn on disability benefit – but remain concerned.