More people in Mayo may be eligible for fuel allowance

More people across Mayo may now be eligible for the Fuel Allowance.

With periods spent on a Community Employment, Tús or Rural Social Scheme now counting towards the qualifying period for Fuel Allowance, Councillor Alma Gallagher has urged Mayo residents to apply.

The expansion of the payment was announced by Fine Gael Minister for Social Protection, Heather Humphreys.

The Fuel Allowance scheme is a means tested payment to assist pensioners and other long-term social welfare recipients with their winter heating costs.

Cllr Gallagher said the news will be welcome for those who leave a qualifying social welfare payment to engage in an Employment Support Scheme.

“I am delighted that this change has been made in recognition of the important work carried out by those on Employment Support Schemes in Mayo,” she said.

“The Fuel Allowance is a welcome weekly payment of €33 for households as a contribution towards their heating costs between September and April each year.

“CE, Tús, and Rural Social Scheme workers play a vital role in local communities right across Mayo. Local services such as childcare, meals on wheels, the maintenance and upkeep of amenities and sports facilities, and other valuable work in our communities rely on these programmes,” she continued.

The Fine Gael councillor expressed the positive impact programmes like this have on peoples ‘physical and mental health, helping them get on the road back into employment’.

“I encourage anyone who may be eligible to apply for the allowance, which will go a long way in supporting households over the winter season,” Cllr Gallagher concluded. 

The 2024/2025 Fuel Allowance season starts on Monday, September 23.