Family carers supports
Deputy Butler described severe pressure on family carers, including shortages of home support, respite, and an inadequate carer’s allowance means test. The Tánaiste said budget changes were unlikely and that the matter rested with the line Minister and Finance; another Deputy asked about a Supplementary Estimate.
We will move on to those Deputies whose questions have carried over from our last session.
Comment on this
Yesterday, Family Carers Ireland protested outside the gates of Leinster House. I went outside to meet its members. They are on their knees. The word they used was "caged". They feel caged in their own homes when it comes to home support hours and respite hours. They feel there is a postcode lottery for services. Rural isolation and desperation were also mentioned.
Home carers who apply for the carer's allowance are means tested, which results in just one in five carers receiving the allowance. The income disregard in the budget remains at €332.50 per week for a single person. This has left carers upset and angry. While they welcome the extra 3.5 hours that a carer can work, he or she may well be penalised, as the income disregard did not increase. Is this something that the Government can revisit? The opportunity to work an extra 3.5 hours is welcome, but not if it is a financial burden.
Comment on this
To be honest, that is a matter for the line Minister and the Minister for Finance. It is unlikely that the budget provisions will change.
Comment on this
What about a Supplementary Estimate?