Claire Kerrane (Roscommon-Galway, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Gabhaim buíochas leis an gCeann Comhairle. I had a similar amendment which was correctly ruled out of order on foot of the cost to the Exchequer. I fully understand the ruling in that regard. Would the Minister consider paying half of the payment in January? As to listening to the stakeholders and carers themselves, the amendment I had put forward that it would be paid in two halves came directly from Family Carers Ireland, which, as the Minister will know, represents a very significant number of carers throughout the State. The organisation makes the point that in recognition of the difficult year that carers have had, where many of them felt very isolated, €925 could be paid in January and €925 to be paid in June. Family Carers Ireland actually suggested December but I have suggested January. This is what they are seeking.

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