Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The budget has been decided by the Government. We have made the decision not to cut the old age pension, not to take away the travel allowance, not to cut the free fuel allowance or shorten the period for which it applies, not to interfere in any way with the carer's allowance or the home care packages. The Government made the decision to continue to pay a respite care grant of €1,375. I would like if it were more than that. I know many Pat O'Mahonys who look after their kith and kin. I have spoken to many of these people and I know it is a draining experience. This is a situation where the Government has to make difficult choices. Home care packages and the carer's allowance have been retained and an additional €20 million is being pumped into supports for the disabled and carers. The Government has made the difficult choice to continue to pay an unconditional grant to carers of €1,375. The budget as presented by the Minister for Finance will stand and will be put to a vote.

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