The Northern Ireland Executive has approved a £36.4 million support package for home heating oil users. Communities Minister Gordon Lyons announced eligible households can apply for £100 prepaid cards redeemable at oil suppliers. The package covers more than 300,000 households.

The funding includes £17.2 million from the UK government and £19.2 million from the Executive. Eligibility targets households receiving income-based benefits, disability benefits or state pensions, plus those with total income under £30,000. Applications will use an online form, with details forthcoming.

Lyons stated officials will expedite the scheme launch. He noted two-thirds of Northern Ireland homes rely on oil heating. The income threshold matches the department's discretionary support scheme.

First Minister Michelle O'Neill, Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly and Lyons addressed reporters after Thursday's Executive meeting. O'Neill said the Executive seeks a meeting with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in a cross-party delegation over budget pressures. Little-Pengelly called for immediate comprehensive support from the UK government.

Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn received an invitation to the meeting but could not attend due to scheduling. He plans to speak with Finance Minister John O'Dowd from London.

Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald said the Executive lacks resources for major interventions and described the £17 million UK pledge as insufficient.