52. Deputy Michael Murphy asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will consider allowing persons aged 66 years and over who continue to provide full-time care to retain a full-rate carer’s allowance alongside their State pension, rather than being restricted to a half-rate payment; and his views that a carer’s responsibilities and the cost of providing care do not reduce on reaching pension age. [63782/26]

I fully acknowledge the significant contribution made by carers and recognise that caring responsibilities do not diminish when a carer reaches pension age.  Government has provided over €2.2 billion for caring income supports in 2026.

Generally under the single payment per person rule, people who qualify for multiple social welfare payments typically receive only the higher of the available options.

However, in recognition of the important contribution made by carers, an exception applies whereby a person who is receiving a primary social welfare payment, including a State Pension, and who is also providing full-time care and attention may receive a half-rate Carer's Allowance in addition to their main payment.  I have no plans to change this arrangement at this time.

Currently, 17,390 pensioners are receiving a State Pension together with a half-rate Carer's Allowance payment.

This arrangement means that a person in receipt of Carer's Allowance who qualifies for the full State Pension on reaching age 66 and retains entitlement to a half-rate Carer's Allowance will see their weekly income increase from €270 to a combined pension and carer payment of €453.30 per week an increase of €183.30 per week.

Government is committed to supporting carers and commitments as set out in the Programme for Government will continue to be advanced over the lifetime of the Government, having regard to the overall policy and budgetary context.