Emer Higgins (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for addressing all the questions. That number of people who will be eligible for the carer's allowance, at 8,000, is huge. It is up to all of us as advocates for people with disabilities and their carers to try to get word out there and encourage people to resubmit their applications.

The Minister's comments on the workplace equipment adaptation grant are very encouraging. She has said she expects Departments to put changes in place themselves. The committee heard from witnesses that individuals were expected to put up the cost rather than the Department. Perhaps there is an opportunity for a circular or something to go to Departments so as to encourage them to find a budget for that initiative. It would be a really progressive step. I thank the Minister again for all she is doing in this space.