Seanad debates
Tuesday, 6 December 2011
Budget 2012: Statements
3:00 pm
John Kelly (Labour)
I have worn a path to the door of the office of the Minister for Social Protection, Deputy Burton, asking that there be no cuts either to the basic-rate or half-rate carer's allowance or to the respite care grant. In fairness, she has honoured that. This is an acceptance of the great work that carers do, and I am delighted about it.
We in Government have protected the basic rates of social welfare. We have given free GP services to those with long-term illnesses. There have been no SNA cuts, and the universal social charge will no longer affect low-paid workers. There are many positives in this, despite the fact that across the floor they would like to point out the negatives.
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