Verona Murphy urges automatic fuel allowance for cancer patients

Verona Murphy called for cancer patients who qualify for a medical card to receive automatic entitlement to the fuel allowance, recounting a constituent who was denied fuel support after a cancer diagnosis. She asked the Taoiseach to raise the proposal with the minister to ensure people can heat their homes at a vulnerable stage.

Constituent case

The deputy described a recent visit from a woman diagnosed with cancer. The woman secured a medical card but was turned down for the fuel allowance and later received a secondary cancer diagnosis, leaving her particularly stressed about heating her home.

Policy proposal

Murphy proposed that eligibility for a medical card for cancer patients should automatically trigger entitlement to the fuel allowance. She said this would support people at their most vulnerable stage in life and asked the Taoiseach to consider the change seriously on behalf of the sick.

Government response

The Taoiseach described the suggestion as sensible and said he would raise it with the minister. He asked whether someone with cancer who qualifies for a medical card could be considered for fuel allowance eligibility and said he would bring the matter to the minister's attention.

Next steps requested

Murphy concluded by urging the Taoiseach to take the proposal forward and to ensure fuel support is available to those with serious illness who already qualify for a medical card.