Households across Ireland may have to navigate the next winter without once-off payments such as electricity credits, as the Government considers scaling back these interventions for the first time in years, The Irish Times reported.

According to the report, senior coalition sources indicated that such payments, which have been a key feature of every budget since 2022, are now seen as unlikely to continue.
These once-off supports have included universal electricity credits, as well as targeted measures for social welfare recipients and families with children.
They have been among the most visible government responses to the cost-of-living crisis, providing financial relief to both households and businesses during challenging economic times.
However, the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council has strongly criticised the repeated use of these payments, arguing that they are unsustainable.
Despite concerns within the Government, these supports were extended last year, particularly in the lead-up to the general election, raising further debate about their long-term viability.
Government sources have emphasised that formal budget discussions have yet to begin, and no final decisions have been made regarding the future of these interventions.
However, the indications suggest a shift in policy, with a potential move away from widespread financial supports in the next budget.