Newry Armagh Sinn Féin Sinn Féin -- Building an Ireland of Equals

Brady calls for quick resolution of household fuel payments

Published: 22 May, 2009

Sinn Féin MLA for Newry and Armagh, Mickey Brady has criticized the Department for Social Development for its handling of the much needed household fuel payment. Mr Brady who is also the party's spokesperson on welfare rights said that claims for the payments are not being administered automatically.

Commenting on the situation Mr Brady said,

"The Department for Social Development has announced that all applications for the household fuel payments will be finalised by June 28th.

Applicants are entitled to Winter Fuel Payment if they receive:

  • Income Support
  • Pension Credit
  • Housing Benefit
  • Housing Loan

Mr Brady advised that anyone who is in receipt of any of the listed benefits is entitled to the £150 one off Household Fuel payment,

"I would encourage anyone who feels they may be entitled to this the payment to write to the Department of Social development and claim what they are entitled to, but to do so before June 28th"

"You can write to DSD at:

DSD

James house

Gasworks Business Park

Ormeau road

Belfast

BT7 2JB

Mr Brady concluded,

"Sinn Féin will continue to ensure that everyone who is entitled to the Household Fuel payment is made aware of the situation. As a member of the department's scrutiny committee I will continue to pursue this issue as a matter of priority