It’s feared many people in Clare will be wrapping up in coats and blankets this winter in an attempt to stay warm in their homes.
It comes as the cost of fuel continues to rise amid the cost of living crisis.
There’s growing concern over mounting fuel and energy costs this winter.
It comes as the cost of coal has increased from just over 20 euro ahead of the summer to between 35 and 40 euro, while oil prices have also gone up.
A former Mayor of Ennis fears people here will be wrapping up in extra jumpers, coats and blankets over the coming months, in an attempt to stay warm.
Former Independent Town Councillor Michael Guilfoyle says he’s disappointed that Councillors and TDs are not doing more, saying he’s baffled as to where people will find the money to cover costs.
The Clare Older People’s Council is calling for decisive action from Government in the upcoming budget.
It’s Public Relations Officer says people are already speaking about boiling the kettle for warm water, instead of turning on their emersion, or heating only one room in the house and spending time there.
Patricia Anne Moore believes this is another area of constraint for older people, hot on the heels of lengthy lockdown periods during the pandemic.
She’s questioning whether steps can be taken to help at community level.
Listen back to the full interview below:
