Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We often have an argy-bargy in this House, but on this issue, there is a broad consensus that we need to do more to support our carers. I acknowledge that, and it is why I have outlined a number of the steps the Minister, Deputy Humphreys, has taken and that I am proud of those steps because I know they have made a real difference because I have met the people who are benefiting from them. There is recognition that changes to the means test are required. That is why, under Heather Humphreys as Minister, we have seen the amount a single person can earn go from €332.50 to €625 and the amount a family can earn rise from €625 to €1,250. As the Deputy rightly said, we introduced in the measures in the budget announced only last week to move those amounts again.

Carers have also told us they are not only getting caught on the means tests in terms of their weekly income but are also because they are self-employed. They have asked us to do something in that regard and we have acted. Carers have said they can also get caught if they have a bit of capital, a bit of money set aside for their children for college or for their future or whatever else, as families can do. We have also acted in that regard. We will act on the findings of the working group and will engage in good faith on these issues during the Social Welfare Bill.

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