Matthew O'Toole MLA, SDLP Leader of the Opposition and South Belfast representative, criticised the Northern Ireland Executive for focusing on correcting previous administrative issues rather than supporting households with high energy bills. He noted nearly £100 million available for such aid, with no local scheme yet delivered.

O'Toole made the remarks ahead of Assembly business on legislation to delay free hospital car parking charges. The South Belfast MLA stated the SDLP plans an amendment to determine public spending on this delayed legislation, introduced by Sinn Féin before the last election and postponed after the Assembly returned.

Assembly members will also address legislation to close the Renewable Heat Incentive scheme, which incurred hundreds of millions in costs and contributed to institutional collapse. O'Toole pointed to a DUP motion on government efficiency scheduled the same week.