Nicky McFadden (Fine Gael)

I move amendment No. 24:

In page 8, before section 9, to insert the following new section:

"9.—The Minister shall, within one month of the commencement of this Act, lay before each House of the Oireachtas, a report on the progress of the National Carers Strategy.".

We spoke yesterday about the fact that we will have the strategy report by mid-summer. I wish to ensure it will contain a comprehensive list of the services and supports that are provided for carers to support them and their well-being, and an adequate and fair system for the remuneration of carers in addition to education and training which are very important for carers. We must focus on quality of life issues for carers. We must ensure we introduce policies that will support carers to achieve a work-life balance.

Another area of concern is that access should be provided to up-to-date and accurate information about carers' rights. I wish to ensure these issues will be considered in the strategy. I welcome what the Minister said yesterday regarding young carers, namely, that he is working in conjunction with the Minister of State with responsibility for children and that he is due to issue a report on how best to support children. I thank the Minister.