10 June 2025

SDLP Opposition Communities Spokesperson Daniel McCrossan MLA has welcomed confirmation that pensioners in the North will receive the winter fuel payment.

He was speaking following confirmation from Communities Minister Gordon Lyons after a U-turn from the UK Government.

West Tyrone MLA Mr McCrossan said:

“I welcome the swift confirmation from the Communities Minister that this vital support will be reinstated. The UK Government’s decision to cut it in the first place was shameful, and the Executive’s response last winter was lacking and late, leaving many older people struggling to heat their homes.

“This announcement will come as a relief to pensioners, but clear communication is now essential. I urge the Minister to ensure the rollout is handled efficiently and that accurate information reaches pensioners. I’m also concerned by reports of scams linked to this payment, and I would encourage the department to work with the PSNI and other agencies to protect older people from fraud.

“While this payment will make a real difference, it is not a substitute for a serious strategy to tackle poverty. One in five people in the North live in poverty, including many older people and the Executive’s draft anti-poverty strategy fails to meet that challenge. The SDLP will continue pressing for long-term, meaningful action.”