Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Michael Moynihan TD, has responded to the alarming rise in electricity and gas disconnections, questioning the role and performance of the energy regulator.
Deputy Moynihan commented: “Many people will have been shocked this morning to read that 20,000 homes in Ireland either had their gas or electricity cut off last year. Incredibly, gas disconnections rose by 82% in 2012. These figures are particularly disconcerting when read beside news of the massive profits announced by the utility companies.
“I have continuously called for Minister Pat Rabbitte to take more of an interest, to do his job and raise concerns with the Commissions for Energy Regulation (CER). Electricity prices rose by 9% last year with gas prices increasing by 12%. This pattern raises serious questions about what priorities are being brought to the price control process by the Regulator.
“Families are struggling; one in four can’t pay their utility bills in full. This problem is getting progressively worse and the Minister continues to ignore it.”
