Deirdre Clune (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)

I will probably repeat much of what has been said but I wish to express my disgust at the fact that the disabled, the blind and carers have been targeted in this budget. Those with disabilities are probably the most vulnerable in society. They have greater needs and expenses, certainly in terms of public transport, clothing and aids and the record shows they are at greater risk of poverty than many others in society. The employment rate is 14% among those with disabilities. All in this House are aware of the contribution carers make to society. The 161,000 family carers provide more than 3.7 million hours of unpaid care each week-----

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