Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)

I asked the Minister for a commitment not to reduce the half-rate carers allowance. The Taoiseach and several of her colleagues have already given a commitment to the wealthy that they will not be taxed further. If that kind of commitment can be given to people who are very well off, I do not know why she cannot give a commitment on the additional payment of just over €100 to those who provide care around the clock to family members.

I was disappointed that she did not take up the invitation by the Carers Association to visit a carer. I accompanied several colleagues from this House on a visit to a woman who is minding her 17 year old disabled son around the clock. She receives the lone parent payment and the half-rate carers allowance. How can this woman and the thousands of other people in similar circumstances possibly sustain a 33% reduction in their income and continue what they are doing? Does the Minister not accept it would be a false economy to cut the allowance?

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