Aideen Hayden (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I can cite my circumstances and the circumstances of other Members on this side of the House. I am sure the Minister has her personal story. The commitment given by the Minister to review the respite care situation is important. I have had representations made by constituents and they did not focus on the loss of ¤324 but on the lack of respite care available. The Minister has agreed to review the provision and I commend her for it. The position of carers would be significantly improved by such a review.

A number of Senators rightly pointed out that people receive respite care and use it for the provision of basic necessities. That is not the function of the respite care grant.