Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)

I thank Barnardos for its research in this area. I agree with the Deputy that we must examine this matter closely. Carer's allowance is not paid to anyone under the age of 18 years. As the Deputy stated, a couple of hundred people are involved full time. I would not quibble with that figure as it sounds about right. I do not know whether there are 3,000 part-time young carers but I have asked my Department to examine Barnardos research and determine whether we can reach a meeting of minds.

We must consider another issue. The carers allowance could be extended to 16 year olds. With just a few hundred people in question, it would not be very expensive, but the Deputy will agree it is probably not the answer.

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