Call for extra fuel allowance for elderly to make up for cold weather demand

A CALL has been made for additional fuel allowances to be made available for older people who have had to use more fuel than expected to keep their homes warm during the cold snap. The call was made by East Galway Deputy Ulick Burke.[/private] 'In view of these unprecedented weather conditions of late, I am calling on the Minister for Social Protection, Eamon O Cúiv and the Minister for Finance Brian Lenihan, to allow for an additional second fuel subsidy to compensate older people for the extra expense incurred during the arctic conditions,' he said. Afraid to leave home Many older people on low incomes are afraid to heat their homes during the day for fear of incurring additional fuel bills which they cannot afford,' said Fine Gael's Deputy Burke. 'There is genuine anxiety among some older people when it comes to the additional expense of trying to keep their homes adequately heated during the cold weather. Many older people have to manage all household bills on limited resources and it is even harder in cases when an older person is living on their own'. During these unprecedented arctic conditions it is imperative that older people keep warm.  As we age it is more difficult for the body to generate its own heat and it is extremely important that older people protect themselves by wearing layers of clothing as opposed to one thick layer and by eating at least one hot meal each day .  Try to remain active within the household to ensure that you keep moving by spreading out household chores.  Sip hot drinks regularly is the advice from Age Action he said. 'In November 2009 the people of South and East Galway demonstrated what it means to be a good neighbour when many homes, farms and businesses were destroyed during the flooding. 'I know that once again these same good neighbours will come to the aid of their older community.  A simple gesture like taking in fuel from an out-house or barn or collecting a medical prescription could mean the difference between life and death,' he said. Considering some of the recent casualties of older people being found dead outside their homes from hypothermia small gestures like dropping in for a chat will break the monotony and  isolation of the day for many. 'I am asking people not to be complacent.  A simple gesture of kindness can radiate a thousand smiles from an older person,' said Deputy Burke.[/private]