‘Government-accredited website helps consumers find best value service-providers’
With changes to Household Benefits Scheme, vital for recipients to shop around
A little-known website, accredited by the State’s Commission for Energy Regulation and based on well-known initiatives in the UK could help consumers save on their energy and internet bills.
‘www.bonkers.ie’ is an impartial price comparison website which lists the various energy suppliers and their products available to consumers in order of lowest price.
Commented Deputy, Seán Kyne: “While every consumer should research and shop around to obtain the best value for their energy suppliers it has become vital that citizens relying on the Department of Social Protection’s Household Benefits Scheme do so.
“Changes announced in Budget 2013 prompted me to raise this issue with Minister for Social Protection, Joan Burton. From this year the structure of the electricity and gas allowance components of the Household Benefits scheme is changing from the old units-based approach to a new cash credit system which will appear as a credit amount on utility bills.
“It’s important to note that the shift in emphasis does not change the value of the credit. Rather, it encourages recipients – over 400,000 households – to find the best energy package available. In 2012 the Government allocated €201 million on the Electricity and Gas allowances. With the constraints on public spending it is essential to maximise the effects of this investment while simultaneously ensuring the vital support the Household Benefits scheme provides is maintained.
“Bonkers.ie helps consumers to easily compare not only energy supply packages but also other everyday financial products such as savings and current accounts, credit cards and personal loans. Furthermore, the website also has a broadband internet and TV comparison section which enables consumers in Galway and Mayo to see exactly the types and costs of broadband and TV services available in their village, townland or suburb.
“I’d encourage all citizens to seek out the best value services and to help any relatives, neighbours and friends, particularly those in receipt of the Household Benefits scheme, in doing this.”