Durkan slams Winter Fuel Payment delay

The SDLP Social Justice spokesperson also claimed the ‘unnecessary wait’ for the roll out of the £200 Covid Heat Payment - scheduled to be issued at the end of January - goes against the intention of the scheme.

Mr Durkan said: “At a time when the government message is to ‘Stay at Home’ where possible, with stricter guidance issued for elderly and clinically vulnerable individuals it is completely unacceptable that this year, of all years, there have been delays in pay outs of the Winter Fuel Payment. Eligible applicants had previously received a letter advising their payment would be made automatically between November and December.

“Northern Ireland remains the area of highest fuel poverty across these islands. As such, this payment has been a lifeline for many vulnerable people who rely on this money, year in year out, to heat their homes.”

“In addition, seeking assistance to address the delays in the Winter Fuel Payment has been near impossible. In November I raised serious concerns with the Winter Fuel Payment helpline and the difficulties faced by claimants, the bunged phone line at that point deterred some vulnerable people from resolving problems and accessing this critical support. This warning went unheeded, no action was taken,” he claimed.

He also criticised the Department for not yet issuing the Covid Heat Payments.

Speaking about the one-off COVID Heat payment, Interum Minister Ní Chuilín said in October: “I have been clear throughout this pandemic that I will use every means possible and explore every opportunity available to make sure support reaches those who need it, when they need it. To have the greatest impact, my Department plans to make the Covid-19 Heating Payment at the end of January 2021. This will ensure funding is provided during the challenging winter period and at a time that additional heating costs are likely to be highest.”