The Taoiseach says next month's budget will be used to protect low-income groups from increasing energy prices.
Micheál Martin says he's concerned about the rising costs of heat and electricity.
He says it's a global problem and the government will protect the most vulnerable.
"In the forthcoming budget we will seek to protect the lowest income groups, and those most impacted by an increase in fuel prices.
"That is an objective of ours, we have to decided on the specific measures, but the principle of protect those most vulnerable to price hikes around energy is one that we wills subscribe to and adhere to."
