89. Deputy Martin Daly asked the Minister for Social Protection his plans to provide better support to carers who are providing full-time care and attention to more than one person; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8382/25]

Sentiment score: 0.28

I formally congratulate the Leas-Cheann Comhairle on his election.

Sentiment score: 0.49

What are the Minister's plans to provide better support to carers who are providing full-time care and attention to more than one person?

Sentiment score: 0.83

I thank the Minister. In Fianna Fáil, we recognise the major contribution carers make to this society, many giving up careers and job opportunities and often providing full-time care to their loved ones. They take away a huge burden that would otherwise have to be met by the State by means of the use of third-party residences and institutional care for people who are disabled or had special or additional needs is something we moved away form many years ago. Fianna Fáil has been the party of the carer's allowance. It introduced the carer's allowance and the half-rate carer's allowance, and it is important that we take a lead on this. Will the Minister comment on the programme for Government pledge regarding parents who are over 66 and receiving both the carer's allowance and a pension?

Sentiment score: 0.42

I welcome the Minister's reply. I also welcome the increases in the income rates to allow people to qualify for the carer's allowance. I recognise and welcome the commitment of the Government to a phasing out of the means test for the carer's allowance. I welcome the improved benefits under the carer's allowance scheme, the extension of the allowance to the self-employed and the provision of access to the State pension. It is absolutely important that we continue to support carers in their very onerous tasks. Many of them do it without any complaint because of their commitment to their loved ones. It is very important that the State continues to recognise their contribution to society in this regard.

Sentiment score: 0.60