Wilson praises the ‘driving force’ in fuel poverty project

The scheme, which will benefit from a £1.8m cash boost announced this week, is aimed at families struggling with fuel poverty.

Mr Wilson said: “This innovative project will address the problem of poorly insulated homes in nine areas of disadvantage across the Northern Zone, one of the nine zones set up to make bids for the £80m available from the Social Investment Fund.”

Recalling that his Budget announcement four years ago of money for the Social Investment Fund had been criticised by some, he said they have been “proved wrong”.

“This funding is now going to disadvantaged people, groups and areas who felt left out of the economic benefits which have flowed from devolution,” he continued.

The DUP representative added: “The great thing about this scheme and those behind it is that it targets areas of real fuel poverty, tackles problems which have not been addressed and will provide employment opportunities for long term unemployed youths in those areas.

“I congratulate Carrick Enterprises and its director Bill Adamson on their vision which was the driving force behind this initiative and look forward to work starting over the summer with areas being identified, contractors being appointed and unemployed people being recruited.”

“I also welcome the fact that Carrick Enterprises wish to ensure that their desire to have this as a community-based, bottom up initiative is maintained by involving local councillors in identifying areas which are most in need of this scheme.

“Fuel bills are a huge worry for low income families this is a real way in which the Northern Ireland Executive is seeking to help alleviate that financial burden.”