The Minister for Social Protection, Heather Humphreys TD, has announced a significant expansion of the Fuel Allowance scheme for the 2024/25 season, benefiting participants of Employment Support Schemes such as Community Employment (CE), Tús, and the Rural Social Scheme (RSS).
Starting on September 23, 2024, periods spent on these schemes will now count towards the qualifying period for Fuel Allowance. This means that individuals who leave a qualifying social welfare payment to join an Employment Support Scheme can use their time on the scheme to meet the eligibility requirements for the allowance.
The Fuel Allowance, which is a means-tested payment, helps households cover their winter heating costs. It will be paid at a rate of €33 per week for 28 weeks, with only one allowance per household. The 2024/25 Fuel Allowance season runs from September 23, 2024, to April 4, 2025, at an estimated cost of €382 million.
Minister Humphreys praised the work done by CE, Tús, and RSS participants, highlighting their contributions to local communities and the positive impact on their own well-being. She encouraged those eligible to apply for the Fuel Allowance and take advantage of this new measure.
For more information on the Fuel Allowance and how to apply, visit gov.ie/fuelallowance.