Marie Moloney (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister of State. I also welcome the increases for which the Bill makes provision. There is no doubt that these are small - no one is saying they are not - but at least they represent a step in the right direction. While we cannot, in one fell swoop, reverse everything that was done in recent years by this Government and that which preceded it, we are moving towards giving something back to people. There has been some discussion with regard to the introduction of a mini-budget in the spring. Whether that is true or whether it will be the case that the budget will be introduced next October as usual, I ask the Minister of State to ensure carers will be taken into consideration either way. Carers are the only people in receipt of social welfare who are obliged to work for their money. If we broke down the payment they receive on a per-hour basis, we would see that the amount involved is miserable. These people are saving the country a fortune by ensuring that their loved ones and others for whom they care can remain at home. If the economy and public finances continue to improve, then carers should be given priority when it comes to giving something back to the people.

One matter to which consideration should be given is that which relates to the telephone rental allowance for carers. It is vital for carers to have contact with those for whom the provide care in situations where they do not live in the same house. I am also of the view that the respite care grant should be revisited. The latter gives carers a break and God knows they need it. The grant ensures that carers can either place their loved ones in care or pay someone to care for them at home while they take a well-earned break.

It is a cliché to say, "Give something to the carers", but I would ask that they would be made a priority in future budgets. I thank the Minister of State for coming in. I welcome the Bill.