We must prepare a solution to protect the needy against rise in energy prices - PM

RIGA - The government must prepare an offer to protect the less fortunate against the current sharp rise in energy prices, Prime Minister Krišjānis Karins (New Unity) emphasized in an interview with TV3 this morning.

The Prime Minister reminded that yesterday the government heard a report from the Ministry of Economics on the rise in electricity and gas prices. The report concludes that there are no signs of an energy resource crisis, but that prices are rising.

Karins noted that energy prices are rising similarly for producers all over the world, respectively, it is not the case that entrepreneurs in one country would be in a much better situation than entrepreneurs in other countries, but rising prices are a challenge for more needy households.

For this reason, ministries have been asked to prepare a vision within two months on how to identify those who need help due to rising energy prices and what support to provide them, the politician noted.

Karins admitted that this issue could be addressed together with next year's budget, but possibly also sooner, already this year by providing money for support from budget funds for unforeseen circumstances.