Today (9 June), the Chancellor announced that pensioners in England and Wales with an annual income £35,000 or below will now be eligible for the payment, accounting for more than three quarters of pensioners in total.
The North Antrim MLA has said: “Having heard many of the often heartbreaking testimonies of those older and more vulnerable people who were hit hardest by the changes to winter fuel payments proposed by this UK Government last year, this change in course will be incredibly welcome.
“Whilst I’m glad their voices were heard on this, we must now ensure our own pensioners here in Northern Ireland are not left behind.
“The Communities Minister has a duty to explore the possibilities associated with bringing in a comparable uplift for those in NI who have bore the brunt of previous cuts. I have submitted a written question to him asking for detail around how he intends to do so, and look forward to further clarity on this.
“No one should be forced to choose between heating and eating. Alliance remains committed to advocating for the most vulnerable in our society and we will continue to work towards solutions that provide essential support for all who need it.”