Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)

This is not just words and ambition. There was a 60% increase in the budget for the carer’s allowance income disregard. That has never been seen before. That means that households with an income of €110,000, and up to €138,000, become eligible for a social protection payment. That is actually happening. It will happen from 1 July next year. That is real and I want to continue with those kinds of levels of increases.

As I said, I also have an eye to existing carers. I wish to ensure they are properly regarded. That is why we work closely with the carers’ organisation in relation to this and other issues. That is why we have a carer’s forum every year well in advance of the budget process. First, it helps alert people to the fact these changes have happened because we want to ensure people have the information. Second, it allows us to work with the carers’ organisations in a partnership way as to how we get this done.

An increase of 60%, combined with the fact that people with an income of €138,000 are now eligible for a payment under the Department of Social Protection, shows my seriousness and intent. It is not just ambition; this is actually happening.

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