Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

We have been clear that we will increase the income disregards for carer's allowance in each budget. It is our intention to phase out the means test during the lifetime of this Government. We were clear on that in the programme for Government and I am clear on it as Minister for Social Protection.

I value the work of carers, which is incredibly important, but I would be wrong to say we will do this by a certain date. We have five budgets. We will engage with the carers organisations as we prepare for the first budget, and with carers generally. I will engage with the Oireachtas committee on social protection, when it is formed, on this issue.

This is a priority for me and the Government. I am confident that we will be able to fulfil our commitment, but budgets have to be negotiated each year. I assure the Deputy and carers that carers will be a priority. As we negotiate our budget priorities each year, this commitment will be a priority.

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