266. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Social Protection to confirm the current status of a carer’s allowance application for a person (details supplied); when a decision is likely to be reached; and whether serious consideration will be given to the application due to the circumstances involved. [66201/26]

267. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Social Protection to confirm the current status of a carer’s allowance application for a person (details supplied); when a decision is likely to be reached; and whether serious consideration will be given to the application due to the circumstances involved. [66199/26]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 266 and 267 together.

Carer's Allowance (CA) is a means-tested social assistance payment made to a person who is habitually resident in the State and who is providing full-time care and attention to a child or an adult who has such a disability that as a result they require that level of care.

I can confirm that two applications for CA were received from the person concerned on 28 August 2026.

The applications were referred to a local Social Welfare Inspector (SWI) on 02 September 2026 to confirm that all the conditions for receipt of CA are satisfied. The SWI has confirmed that the applications will be prioritised and a letter has been issued to the person concerned inviting them to attend an interview this week.

Once the SWI has reported, a decision will be made, and the person concerned will be notified directly of the outcome.

I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.