Forms To Install New Boiler Due

Housing Minister Nelson McCausland is urging homeowners and heating installers to submit installer forms for the Department's Boiler Replacement Scheme as soon as possible.

Councillor Liam Johnston backs the scheme. He said: "Old boilers are less economical to run and during this current economic climate it is essential everyone has access to the scheme. A new boiler will have a longer life span and I would urge everyone to avail of this opportunity before the 31 March."

The Minister issued the reminder during a visit with pensioner Mildred Cooper who had a new oil boiler installed as part of the scheme, which is being administered by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive

Minister McCausland said: "I set aside £2 million to deliver a pilot Boiler Replacement Scheme which will assist in the region of 1,330 householders who previously have not been eligible for assistance from other energy efficiency schemes. I am delighted with the success of the pilot to date. "The scheme will close on 31 March and therefore I would urge anyone still waiting for work to be carried out in their home to make contact with their preferred installer urgently to ensure the work is completed as soon as possible."

Ms Cooper who recently received a new boiler is delighted and said: "Thanks to DSD I've had loft and cavity wall insulation put in, and my forty year old boiler replaced. My home is now as warm as toast and the whole process was hassle free."The £2million pilot Boiler Replacement Scheme was targeted at older people who do not qualify for other Government energy efficiency improvement schemes, making them vulnerable to fuel poverty.

Richard Gilpin from Newell Boiler Services installed Ms Cooper's new boiler, he said: "Replacing an old boiler can make a real difference to the efficiency of your heating system. This scheme is a great opportunity to take advantage of the support offered by DSD for those who have old and inefficient boilers. Installer forms need to be with the Housing Executive by the end of March and once they have approved it, the installation can take just a few days."

The Boiler Replacement Allowance will be administered by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. Application forms may obtained by calling 03448 920 900. Calls are charged at local rate.

Leaflets explaining the Allowance and inviting applications will be sent to homes of those likely to be eligible over the coming weeks. Full details of eligibility and application process are also available athttp://www.nidirect.gov.uk/boiler-replacement-allowance