Fine Gael Cork South Central Deputy, Jerry Buttimer, has called on the energy regulator not to go ahead with a proposed price hike of 22% for Bord Gáis gas prices, saying that if there is no possible way of avoiding such a move, the increase should be absorbed, at least in part, by the energy company.
“An increase of a fifth in Bord Gáis prices seems excessive and I have no doubt it will be too much for many people to bear.
“Bord Gáis was seeking an increase of 39% which the energy regulator refused. A public consultation must now be conducted by the regulator before a final decision to hike prices up by 22% at the end of August is made.
“I am calling for everyone concerned to see sense on this matter. There is currently an estimated 110,000 Bord Gáis customers in arrears. A price hike of this magnitude will undoubtedly push this figure skywards.
“Much has been made in recent months about the ease with which energy customer can switch providers. I am urging people to use their purchasing power, if they are not happy with the value they are getting, and to examine which energy supplier can meet their needs at the lowest possible cost.”