Seanad debates
Tuesday, 25 March 2003
Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2003: Second Stage (Resumed).
I realise the Minister does not currently have a budget for this expenditure. Neither is it her sole preserve as it impinges on the responsibilities of the Department of Health and Children. Carers' work saves the State a huge amount each year. However, this does not appear to be recognised, acknowledged or even properly quantified. It could be argued that we should be taking care of the elderly and the disabled, regardless of the circumstances, and that we should not have to be paid to do so. Naturally, people would be more likely to undertake the work if there is a financial incentive and if it benefits the State.
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