The Commissioner has expressed serious concern about the sharp rise in home heating oil prices and the impact this will have on many older people across Northern Ireland, calling for urgent clarification on what support may be available if pressures continue.
With a significant proportion of households here relying on heating oil, the sudden increases in price can place enormous pressure on older people, many of whom are living on fixed incomes and already facing rising living costs.
The Commissioner said older people should not be placed in a situation where they are worried about whether they can afford to heat their homes.
She said: “Many older people will be extremely worried by the sudden rise in heating oil prices. Unexpected increases like this can have a real and immediate impact on their ability to heat their homes.
“Older people should not have to face the prospect of choosing between heating and other essential costs. We need urgent clarification from our government on what support may be available if these pressures continue.”
The Consumer Council for Northern Ireland have advice and support for home heating oil customers, including a price checker Support with high energy costs | Consumer Council
