Labour’s Attack on Pensioners – Winter Fuel Support was “Nothing Short of Disgraceful” - Lockhart
Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart has consistently challenged Labour’s decision last year to strip pensioners not in receipt of pension credit of the vital Winter Fuel Payment branding it as “nothing short of disgraceful”. At a time when the cost of living continues to rise and energy prices remain high, this callous move left many older people struggling to heat their homes.
However, thanks to Gordon Lyons MLA, Minister for Communities, eligible pensioners in Northern Ireland will now receive a £100 fuel support payment, with payments starting from 21st March. This is a welcome intervention to help those who have been unfairly penalised by Labour’s reckless policies.
Carla Lockhart MP commented:
“Labour’s decision to remove the Winter Fuel Payment from so many pensioners was an unforgivable attack on some of the most vulnerable in our society. Many older people have worked hard all their lives, contributed to our economy, and now find themselves struggling to keep warm due to Labour’s short-sighted cuts.
I want to commend Minister Gordon Lyons for stepping up and ensuring that our pensioners receive this much-needed support. This payment will be automatic, meaning pensioners do not have to apply – a simple, effective way to provide help. It’s just a shame that Labour abandoned them in the first place.”
She added:
“I will continue to stand up for our pensioners and fight for policies that protect them, not punish them. The government should be doing more to ease the financial pressures on older people, not making life harder for them.”
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