Louise O'Reilly (Dublin Fingal West, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank Ms Tighe in particular because I understand exactly how tough it is to make the arrangements to come in here. We really appreciate her time and the information she has given us. As I have often said, just because someone is caring out of love, it does not mean that people should take advantage of it.

What happens to carers at 66?

I thank the foster carers for their evidence. In terms of the declining impact, is it possible to put a monetary value on what the payout will be? It is a small amount to pay to foster carers in order to be able to keep them because, as we know, the vast majority pay out of their own pocket. If the State does not subsidise foster carers correctly and appropriately, people will not be able to continue to do it.

What is the estimated cost? Can the witnesses give us an approximate cost?

In regard to ALONE, energy poverty is absolutely huge. It is unfortunately not just a winter thing. Many older people come to my office or advice clinics and say that in the evening they do not turn the heating on and they go to bed early. That is no way to live. Is there any value in paying the fuel allowance - maybe we should rename it, although I am sure people do not care - for the whole year in recognition of the changing reality for older people?