Irish energy cost rise criticised

11 August 2010

Written by John King

A rise in taxes on energy imposed by the government could hurt everyone in Ireland, a columnist has claimed.

An increase in electricity taxes of some five per cent is due to be introduced in October, following rises in heating oil earlier in the year.

Writing for Herald.ie, Andrew Lynch criticised the five per cent levy planned for energy bills from October, saying people living on the poverty line are particularly likely to be the ones who stand to lose the most.

He commented that organisations representing the elderly and unemployed are "understandably up in arms", adding: "For people on a small fixed income, even a small rise in their monthly expenses can have a devastating effect."

The decision to impose the public service obligation levy was made by energy minister Eamon Ryan, who is believed to have said the move is a must if Ireland is to meet EU renewable energy targets.

Treacy Hogan, a columnist for the Irish Independent, also criticised the planned cost hike, claiming homeowners will be subject to stealth taxes as opposed to green charges.

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