The Fuel Allowance expanded nationwide, raising weekly payments to €38 and adding over 50,000 households, with backdated payments issued March 12.

The Fuel Allowance has expanded nationwide, adding over 50,000 households to the program, including 1,401 in Mayo, 2,083 in Louth, 340 in Leitrim, and 691 in Sligo, all receiving Working Family Payment. The weekly allowance increased to €38, up from €33, resulting in a 28-week annual payment of €1,064. Backdated payments of up to €380 will be issued on March 12, with support running from September to April each year to help low-income families manage winter heating costs.