Seanad debates

Wednesday, 18 December 2002

Social Welfare Bill, 2002: Second Stage.

 

I appreciate there is a divergence of views as to whether removing the means test is the correct thing to do. We do not know how many carers there are. There is a view that some people can well afford to pay and they should not participate in a scheme to support those who cannot manage or cope. This is a debate which must take place. In the context of the means test, and based on the information available to us, it would cost an additional €150 million to include most carers in the carer's allowance scheme. We are moving towards the introduction of an additional 5,000 carers.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.