Over 6,767 households in Laois are to benefit from a €924 fuel allowance payment this winter.

The scheme beginning on September 22 will see a payment of €33 a week for 28 weeks to homeowners who qualify for the grant, or alternatively through two instalments of €462.

Over 410,000 households will benefit from the Fuel Allowance nationally, a measure aimed at helping people afford to heat their homes.

Pictured: Over 6,767 Laois households to avail of the winter fuel allowance scheme. File photo

Fianna Fáíl TD Sean Fleming welcomed this announcement.

“The Fuel Allowance scheme is an essential measure for many households throughout the country," he said.

"I am delighted that this scheme will now benefit more households than ever before, with 6,767 of those households in Laois."

Sean Fleming TD praised the expansion of the payment to those 66 and over, and for those in receipt of Carer’s Allowance.

Minister for Social Protection Dara Calleary urged people to check if they are eligible to join those receiving the payment.

"I am delighted to announce that Fuel Allowance payments will commence this week to 410,000 households across the state," he said.

"The Fuel Allowance plays a vital role in supporting hundreds of thousands of families with their heating costs over the winter months. This is such a valuable support for so many households.

"We have expanded the eligibility conditions this year to allow more households to qualify and I encourage people to check their eligibility for this important payment," Minister Calleary finished.

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