LINDA FABIANI MSP COMMENTS ON BOILER SCRAPPAGE CALLS

Responding to opposition calls for the Scottish Government to emulate the English boiler scrappage scheme, Linda Fabiani MSP has said that she supports the SNP government’s priority of targeting its efforts on relieving fuel poverty.

The Strathaven-based MSP said:

“I am pleased that the Scottish Government’s Housing Minister, Alex Neil, has said that he hasn’t ruled out a boiler scrappage scheme as a way of helping people to reduce fuel bills and improve energy efficiency. The SNP government is currently consulting on an Energy Efficiency Action Plan for Scotland, and welcomes views on any Scottish energy saving scheme including incentives to replace inefficient boilers

“But I also support the Minister in his view that the top priority for the Scottish Government must be to prioritise those individuals and families who are fuel poor. They are the ones who have suffered most badly during the last month of arctic temperatures and it is right that the government’s efforts should be aimed first and foremost at helping them.

“The Scottish Government’s £2 million Energy Saving Scotland Home Loans pilot scheme provides interest-free loans and is already helping Scottish householders upgrade to a more energy efficient boiler.

“Free or discounted boilers are also available to eligible households through the Energy Assistance Package, which has been introduced by the SNP government as a free service for everyone in Scotland who wants help with reducing their fuel bills and improving the energy efficiency of their homes. Anyone who phones the free helpline will receive expert energy advice.

“I would urge everyone to take advantage of the help available from the Energy Assistance Package. Over 3,000 people in Lanarkshire have accessed it in the past few months, but many more could benefit.”

“Call the helpline on 0800 512 012 or go to www.energyassistancepackage.com today.”