Nicky McFadden (Fine Gael)

I move amendment No. 14:

In page 3, before section 2, to insert the following new section:

"2.—The Minister shall, within 3 months of the commencement of this Act, lay before each House of the Oireachtas, a report on the levels of support available to young carers.".

I acknowledge the fact that carers did receive an increase. However, €14 is not a huge amount of money, particularly when one considers the cost of living.

I note the position in respect of the respite grant but I have concerns about the latter because people are not using it for its designated purpose and, on foot of the low amount they receive each week, are instead using it as a top up. We must ensure respite grants are used for respite purposes. In other words, there must be capacity in the system to allow carers to take holidays. We should not just provide a token amount. Otherwise the grant will be merely seen as a once-off annual payment designed to make up for the fact that the weekly payment is so inadequate.

As stated on Second Stage, I am particularly concerned about young carers. There are 5,433 carers between the ages of 15 and 19 who were completely ignored in the budget. Adolescents need to spend time on their education and personal development and they also must be allowed to socialise with their friends. I am aware of many young people who have deferred college courses and decisions relating to their careers in order to care selflessly for their elderly relatives. I call on the Minister of State to take to heart the needs of these individuals and to take action in respect of the commitment made in Towards 2016 to engage in research on young carers and provide a programme for their specific needs.