Sinn Féin will bring forward a Dáil motion today to introduce an urgent ban on energy disconnections.
Sinn Féin TD for Donegal Pearse Doherty has urged TDs to back the party’s motion to ensure households are protected from electricity and gas disconnections this winter.
The motion is aimed at protecting people who use pay as you go meters.
Speaking today, Teachta Doherty said: “People in Donegal are facing massive electricity bills this winter. Households are worried sick about whether they can keep on top of these spiralling bills.
“The government’s refusal to reduce and cap electricity prices at pre-crisis levels is a huge mistake. It leaves hard-pressed families here in Donegal wide open to further hikes and to the possibility of disconnection. As families face a long winter, they worry that they won’t be able to afford to keep the lights on.
“This week Sinn Féin will use our Dáil time to bring forward a motion to introduce a ban on energy disconnection now.”
Deputy Doherty said that the government’s plan to introduce a ban on disconnections from December until February falls far short of what is needed.
“People can’t wait until December. They need to be protected from disconnection now,” he said.
“The cost-of-living crisis is unprecedented and people need certainty that they will be able to afford their bills.
“The government can and must do much more to protect people in Donegal from spiralling energy costs. They must ensure there is a ban on disconnections for all customers now and until the end of March.
“Sinn Féin will stand up for ordinary workers and families to ensure that they are protected from the cost-of-living crisis. People in Donegal can’t keep waiting, they need help and certainty from the government and they need it now.”
