Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent) | Oireachtas source

First, I thank the excellent carers who provide such an invaluable service in County Kerry, which I represent. Carers play a vital role in society by providing support and care for those who are unable to care for themselves. Carers provide invaluable emotional support for those in their care. This includes offering companionship, listening to concerns and providing comfort during difficult times. Carers also play an important role in managing the physical health of those in their care. They provide practical support that can help individuals to maintain their independence and play an important role in advocating for the rights and needs of those in their care.

The contribution of family carers to the State is often undervalued and under-recognised. The vast majority of family carers, including young carers, do not receive carer's allowance. We in the Rural Independent Group support this motion and the call to increase the income disregard per week to €450 for the single rate and €900 for the household rate. According to the motion, this would cost approximately €47 million. That would be money very well spent.

Women provide more demanding and intensive forms of care than men, such as bathing, dressing, incontinence care and support with complex tasks. I also recognise the great contribution men make. It is more likely to be concentrated in care management, household maintenance, shopping and transportation, which are also very important roles. I want to ensure that when people are allocated home help and care, they actually get it and all the services and supports can be put in place to help those people. We had a situation where people giving care were getting a miserly sum of money and transport and having to wait enormous lengths of time for it. That has to be put to a stop. They should get the money when they need it and they should get the amount they need.

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