Olwyn Enright (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)

Given the saving to the State by the work carers provide, is the Government considering an individual assessment for carers recognising that they are providing the care, rather than a partner for example? Under the social partnership agreement it was agreed that income limits for carer's allowance would be expanded. Does the Minister intend that this will be seen in the 2008 budget?

The Minister will be aware that there are approximately 3,000 children aged 15 to 17 years old engaged as full-time carers. They may not appreciate me calling them children.

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