Heating grant cuts spark concern for Kildare elderly residents

There has been a call for a review of recent changes to the Housing Aid for Older People Grant scheme, following concerns that the new rules could leave vulnerable residents without adequate heating.

The motion, brought forward by cllr Pat Balfe at last week's meeting of Kildare County Council specifically objects to the exclusion of funding for new fossil fuel boilers — including oil and gas systems — which came into effect from 1 January 2025.

Cllr Balfe warned that the updated policy may disproportionately impact older people, many of whom may be unable to afford full heating system upgrades even with grant support.

The council agreed to ask the minister to consider reinstating support for like-for-like boiler replacements in cases where full system overhauls are not financially feasible.

The motion advocates for a more balanced approach to the green transition, one that protects vulnerable groups during the shift to low-carbon energy. Cllr Balfe noted the importance of addressing climate concerns, but that we should do so in a reasonable, cost-effective way.

Cllr Chris Pender suggested writing to the Minister to increase funding to accommodate environmentally friendly boiler systems. Other cllrs were in agreement, citing the need for a “just transition focus” to achieve these goals.

Cllr Aoife Breslin brought in concerns around other costings such as insulation and windows that would need to be updated: “A whole new system is quite complicated and quite costly. A whole body of work will be needed in the house.”