"Energy usage during the restrictions has increased as people are at home more, and many households will experience bill shocks at a time when they are on a reduced income. This must be factored into decisions regarding the application of the PSO levy in 2020/2021, as the proposed increase will add additional pressure to already struggling households,” said Kieran Stafford, National President, SVP.

"We fear moneylenders will end up targeting people who will just not be able to repay loans at the exorbitant interest rates they are charging," says SVP president Kieran Stafford.

“The high cost of energy here in Ireland should be considered a key contributor to utility arrears and the inability of people to adequately heat their homes,” says the SVP’s Dr Tricia Keilthy.

Data from Eurostat show that among EU peer countries Ireland has the second highest rate of households who cannot afford to adequately heat their home and the highest percentage of utility arrears.

“The weather forecast for the coming days is expected to be exceptionally cold and to include a significant snowfall. This bad weather will affect and frighten many people across our country.”

Charities welcome budget's benefits and focus on job creation.

Increased energy costs over past three years has negated value of allowance.