An increase in the fuel allowance is expected to included in tomorrow's budget.
The fuel allowance is set to rise by €3.50 per week and the eligibility criteria extended in tomorrow's budget.
The allowance is currently €28 per week for 28 weeks or given in two lump sums of €392.
Just over 20,000 households in the midlands are currently in receipt of the payment.
Sinn Féin TD for Laois-Offaly Brian Stanley says fuel poverty is going to be a huge challenge for families in the midlands this winter:
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