Michael Collins (Cork South West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I commend the Independent Group on putting forward this motion. It is way past time for the Government to introduce a programme of reforms related to carer's payments and in particular, the need to address the inadequacies created by the existing means test. The importance of carers cannot be overstated. They provide a crucial service that helps to maintain the dignity and independence of those they care for. Like many others here, I could spend hours talking about carers and the injustices this Government has forced upon them. Imagine working every day, taking care of someone and their every single need, practically being a nurse to someone, and not getting paid for it. No one in this country will work for nothing. They should not be working for nothing. Carers have saved the State a fortune. Without them, the already broken health system would collapse. One lady I know of, among many, has a child with cancer. She has had to leave her job. She was told last week she is not entitled to carer's allowance. Another lady who looks after her elderly father and mother gets a pittance as her husband is working. It is time that the carers of this country were given what they deserve. This allowance should not be means tested. The Minister has to sit up and listen to this excellent motion put forward today.

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