During a Parliamentary Question by Fine Gael representative Fergus O'Dowd, Environment Minister Eamon Ryan failed to directly answer whether residents of multi-occupancy units and full-time residents in mobile homes can access the scheme.
Minister Ryan stated that operated meters are not installed by ESBN and are not regulated by the CRU, thereby not guaranteeing access to the rebate for residents who pay via such meters.
Calling for clarity on the scheme, Deputy Fergus O'Dowd said: "A process must be put in place to allow these residents to apply for the rebate, and ensure they receive it in full. Minister Ryan stated this will be a private matter between residents and operators. This is completely unacceptable and will no doubt leave thousands of vulnerable households unable to access this much needed rebate.
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"Minister Ryan said that his Department is working closely with the RTB on a public information scheme to ensure impacted tenants are aware of the rebate. However, the RTB have thus far been unable to provide me with any details of such scheme.
"This is a problem which will impact some of the most vulnerable householders, people who are in most urgent need of the €200 energy relief. We need to ensure the safeguards and proper procedures are in place so that these people feel the full benefit of the rebate.
"I've raised my concerns directly with both the RTB and the CRU and will be pressing Minister Ryan to address the issue urgently," concluded Deputy O'Dowd.
