The Strangford MLA said: “Many people in NI are living in a cold home due to fuel poverty. Yet here we are with no government strategy to deal with this vital issue that is harming the health and welfare of neighbours, family and friends.

“The National Energy Action (NEA) NI briefing on Fuel Poverty has confirmed that people living in social homes and private rentals are facing fuel poverty due to the condition of housing and the lack of fuel efficiency opportunities.

“The NEA report states that many people are simply too scared to turn on the heat. A quarter (27% of households) said they went without heating or electricity at some point during the last 24 months because they could not afford the cost of energy.

“Additionally, research confirms that over half of pensioners, people with disabilities, and those who are in social or private rented accommodation, who live in fuel poverty have worse mental health, increased visits to GPs and those with pre-existing medical conditions have suffered increased deterioration in their health.

“I am calling on the Minister to urgently bring forward a target-driven Fuel Poverty Strategy, in time for consideration for the upcoming Budget, to ensure cross-departmental resources will be invested to eradicate fuel poverty.

“Our communities are suffering and it’s time for the Minister, who has previously prioritised visits to the USA, to take real action and start delivering on the issues that matter most.”