Seymour Crawford (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)

Other issues must be looked at as well. Deputy Keaveney mentioned the issue of people working in FÁS. Surely anyone over 55 should be allowed to remain on a FÁS scheme until he or she reaches the age of retirement. It is a good organisation which has served both rural and urban communities well. People should be allowed to work, regardless of the number of years there, once they have reached a certain age.

In the previous budget the Minister said he would be giving out respite grants of €9 million to those not already on carer's allowance. The reality is that less than €6 million has been paid. That indicates there is some money available in that area and the entire carer situation needs to be reviewed. The means test has been slightly increased, but there are still seriously ill people who require full-time care. Daughters, daughters-in-law and whatever must stay at home and look after them. I know the carer's benefit exists, but the situation is much the same in that regard.

I took a phone call a short time ago from a woman in my constituency whose husband was forced to work more overtime because of work practice changes. She has been reassessed for carer's allowance and cut off because of his overtime. She feels very aggrieved.

I welcome the increased funding for the money advice and budgeting service, MABS. In spite of all the talk about the Celtic tiger and the country rolling in money, a vulnerable group still exists comprising not just people on social welfare but middle income groups as well. They are being hit by high costs for houses, cars and, perhaps, furniture on loan. The people in MABS inform me that many such people are now coming to them for help. It is therefore very important that MABS should be looked after.

A woman told me at the weekend that a community welfare officer had come to the house to see what food she had for herself and her three children before giving her €50. That is how serious some situations are. In general, I welcome the increases. A major step forward has been made over recent years. However, we need to ensure that the regulations allow for hardship cases wherever they arise.

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