Alan Dillon (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I want to bring to focus the role of young family carers. A recently published ESRI report highlighted the challenges faced by young people who are overburdened in their role as carers for parents, siblings or close relatives. The story of a 17-year-old student from the west of Ireland who helps her six-year-old non-verbal autistic brother was highlighted in the report. The young girl highlighted the difficulties she faces in progressing her studies while also assisting her brother. Young carers have been identified as a group who are at risk of social exclusion, additional health problems, including mental health issues, and curtailed opportunities as a result of their extra responsibilities.

It is crucial that our State agencies, including Tusla and educational institutions, understand and recognise this largely invisible group, the members of which are often difficult to reach. Will consideration be given to broadening the scope of suitable programmes, such as the school completion programme, to encompass this young carer group? Can home-school community liaison co-ordinators be allocated to assist in providing the necessary academic, social and emotional supports?

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