“Access to heat and electricity is a basic right”

Sinn Féin Moor Councillor Patricia Logue said her party has asked energy providers to show flexibility and establish a mechanism for people to remain connected as the COVID-19 crisis intensifies.

Cllr Logue said: “Many vulnerable and older people are already self-isolating and this has made it difficult from them to access shops to top up their gas and electricity.

“While some can top up their metres online, this is not easily accessible for all everyone, particularly older people. With lockdown measures in place it will be extremely difficult for these citizens to top up on their gas and electric.”

She said her party has asked energy providers to request continuation of gas and electricity to be guaranteed with metres needing to be continuously topped up.

“Furthermore, Sinn Féin believe that all gas and electricity suppliers should rule out disconnections for those unable to pay in the current economic environment.

“Absolutely no one should carry the additional fear of going into the dark and cold. Access to heat and electricity is a basic right.”