Joe Carey (Clare, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister. I want to record my thanks to the staff and officials in the Department of Social Protection. They have gone beyond the call of duty in trying to process claims and give payments to the most vulnerable in society, not only throughout the pandemic but now in a cost-of-living crisis. I want to recognise the staff in County Clare and, indeed, throughout the country.

On the fuel allowance, the Minister's intention is to extend the allowance for the over 70s. She might take us through what that will mean to those people over 70 who may not previously have qualified for that payment. The cost of energy is soaring and it is important that Government responds.

The carer's support grant of €500 is to be paid this week. How many carers will benefit from that payment?

In respect of the Government's cost-of-living response and the payments that have been and will be made in October, November and December, will the Minister confirm that the payments scheduled for October have been paid? Are we on track to pay all the November payments too?