My constituency of Dublin North-West has a growing older population, showing high concentrations of older residents, particularly those over 80 years of age. The constituency also has areas of economic disadvantage and high unemployment. People are struggling daily and this cost-of-living crisis and escalating costs are continuing to impact families, who are forced to make hard choices between putting food on the table for their families or paying for essential utilities and various housing costs, including medical care. Families are facing an almost €2,000 annual increase in household bills. Over the last number of winters, we have seen how families have struggled to heat their homes, as energy costs have gone through the roof. Electricity bills now make up a big part of the annual household expenditure. Families have received exorbitant electricity bills in recent years, leaving people stressed and fearful for the future, especially in these economically and politically unstable times. Many have gone into significant arrears and have even gone into debt because of these huge electricity bills. Families need protection from price-gouging and anti-competitive behaviour, and they need proper monitoring of energy prices. The Commission for Regulation of Utilities needs to be given additional powers to carry out such functions. Ireland once had some of the cheapest electricity prices in Europe. The break-up of the company has led, over time, to Ireland having the highest household electricity prices in the EU, with costs roughly 40% above the EU average. This is not sustainable and it is the ordinary person on the street who is suffering. This amendment to the Electricity Regulation Act 1999 will protect consumers and struggling families. It is needed now more than ever in this uncertain world. Families who are suffering need a break and to be protected from the rip-off energy prices.

Sentiment score: -0.13