A Derry councillor to propose to the council that warm banks be established in the city this winter.
Aontú Cllr for Ballyarnett Emmet Doyle said he would propose the plans at a meeting of the full council this week and hopes to gain the support to set up the warm banks throughout the district to support people who are struggling with energy costs.
The action is being taken in response to the cost of living crisis, with similar actions already being taken in England and parts of Europe.
Read more: New Derry City Cemetery proposals unveiled as public opinion sought
The plans would offer a safe, warm place where local people who can't afford to heat their homes can come and spend time
Cllr Doyle said: “Warm banks are effectively places that citizens can go if they run out of energy to heat their homes or are struggling with energy costs. They are being rolled out in areas in England and are features in Canada and Germany.
"I want the council to facilitate council-owned community centres and all buildings open to the public to be used for this purpose.
"I am asking that we incorporate services that might already be on such as homework clubs or cosy clubs for older people and for Translink to engage with us to ensure people can get reasonably to and from warm banks.
"I’m also asking that council produce information on any grant schemes, advice or support programmes available throughout the district to be available at these sites.
"I had really hoped we wouldn’t get to the stage where this measure was necessary but Stormont is now useless to people struggling and a paltry £100 from Westminster for those using oil is a disgrace.
"Many community groups are already doing their best to support people and Council needs to back that up through these facilities, so we will demand that the Executive, not ratepayers, pay for the increased heating bills for buildings."
READ NEXT:
NI mum on how autistic son inspired new higher education qualification
Woman reunited with wedding ring after it was lost on beach for two months
To get the latest breaking news from Co Derry straight to your inbox, sign up to our free newsletter.
