Electric Ireland announced this week that they will be increasing the cost of their electricity and gas by up to 25 per cent from May 1st, meaning households will be charged over €500 extra per year.
Bord Gáis Energy, Energia and Prepay Power have also all announced increases in recent weeks, citing increased wholesale prices.
Speaking to RedFM News, Jessie Anthony form MABS in Cork says more people are contacting them for help with budgeting:
"It's no doubt it's going to be very, very difficult for people, especially those that are vulnerable and those that are already in difficulty. The impact as well that we're seeing is it's proving difficult for people to pay their debts; the day to day running of the house is taking up such a percentage of their income that there is very little left over for social inclusion, which is very worrying long term or just paying the mortgage or a Credit Union loan or whatever it may be."
The number for MABS in Cork is (0818) 072 090
