Eamon Ryan criticised for spending €40m more on first energy credit scheme than necessary

Sinn Féin senator Lynn Boylan  had previously argued against the inclusion of second homes in the energy credit scheme, which was launched by the Government in a bid to tackle high energy prices

In a letter to the Oireachtas Environment Committee, Energy Minister Eamon Ryan says he is proposing to 'withhold funding from low-usage electricity households, potentially saving up to €40m'. Picture: Green Party

The Energy Minister has been criticised for spending €40m more on the first energy credit scheme than was necessary by including low-usage households such as vacant houses and holiday homes.

The renewed credit scheme — announced in October's budget — will go directly to 2.2m households over the winter.