McAuliffe urges Minister to ensure older people retain “vital” supports
Dublin People 21 Jan 2025
Fianna Fáil TD Paul McAuliffe has expressed concern at changes to the Housing Aid for Older People grant which no longer covers replacement of fossil fuel boilers, such as oil or gas boilers.
The grant is available to older people who require repairs to their home in order to continue living independently. It is means tested and frequently used by older people who require repairs to their central heating system, roof, doors or wiring.
Since January 1st, the grant can no longer be used to buy a new fossil fuel boiler but will instead cover repair of an existing oil or gas boiler, replacement of other parts of the heating system, installation of a second-hand fossil fuel boiler or installation of an electricity or biomass heating solution.
The Dublin North-West TD said “while I fully appreciate the need to transition away from fossil fuel heating systems in homes, I am concerned that this change could make older people more vulnerable where their boiler is beyond repair.”
“The difference in the value of the grant and the cost of installing alternative central heating systems based on electricity or biomass is significant and relying on second hand boilers may present difficulties for homeowners,” he said.
“The Housing Aid for Older People Grant is a lifeline for many people when unexpected repairs are needed, particularly those who live alone and rely on their pension. Last year the Minister for Housing made welcome changes to expand and improve the grant by expanding the means test and increasing the value of the grant. I have contacted Minister Darragh O’Brien asking that this issue in terms of boilers is reconsidered.”