Sinn Féin backs call for gas price freeze

Sinn Féin Assembly Economy spokesperson Michelle Gildernew has welcomed the call from Ofreg for a two-month freeze in the proposed 20% price increase announced earlier this month by Phoenix Natural Gas.

"Across the board, from political parties to consumer groups, there is a strong consensus that Phoenix should not introduce the proposed 20% price increase in April," she said. "The call from Ofreg adds further weight to that demand.

"Last week. parties from across the political spectrum met with Ian Pearson. The General Consumer Council have also spelt out the position clearly.

"This entire situation needs to be urgently examined. It is not acceptable that any monopoly position can be mercilessly exploited to the detriment of the many vulnerable people in our society who live with fuel poverty. The situation also further compounds the disadvantages faced by low income families and struggling small businesses who already face unfair electricity costs."