The Saint Vincent de Paul has said it is relieved that the Government has helped pensioners out of the poverty trap by raising both the contributory and non-contributory pension.
But spokesperson Audrey Deane was shocked at the "paltry" increase in energy allowances for older people and low-income families.
“We can't believe that there has not been a more robust approach to helping people with their energy costs, particularly those dependent on gas and electricity.”
“A €4 in the fuel allowance is not going to do a lot for low-income families, and we're just really shocked at that,” she said.