Pat Moylan (Fianna Fail)

I compliment the Minister and his officials on the improvements that have taken place for carers. I also compliment those who take on the role of carer, which results in a tremendous saving for the State. Many thousands do valuable caring work and claim nothing whatever. They put themselves out at great financial cost simply because of the needs of a relative.

Senator Terry referred to the introduction of the measure whereby those on social welfare payment will receive half of the carer's payment. This has been well received and great credit is due to the Department and the carers involved. We recognise that carers' organisations are very active and have put much pressure on politicians to ensure the situation for carers is improved.

Carers carry out magnificent and worthwhile work, often on a voluntary basis and in many cases on behalf of people who are not related to them. Great credit is due to them. I compliment the Minister on the improvements he has made.