SVP: Public already struggling with gas bills before price rise
The St Vincent de Paul charity fears that many people will feel they are unable to heat their homes this winter after Bord Gais' decision to increase prices by 8.5%.
The higher prices mean householders could be forced to pay around €70 more per year.
St Vincent de Paul spokesperson John Mark McCafferty said that the number of people looking for help in covering fuel costs has risen dramatically in recent years.
"We've spent money supporting people who have been struggling with their gas bills - that has increased very, very substantially in recent years going from just under €3.4m in 2007 going to €8.8m in 2010," he said.
"That gives you a very stark guide to the kind of problems people are facing."
