Lorraine Higgins (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I am calling for a debate on carers and the key role they play in our communities, providing vital support to the vulnerable in our society. This support is perhaps the most valuable of all work, giving dignity, security and comfort to those in need. Regrettably, over several budgets, their income has been reduced, which has placed many carers and their clients in difficult situations and has put them under pressure. We all know they fulfil several crucial roles and are indispensable to the people who use them, but they are also indispensable to the State. Carers enable people to be cared for and treated in their own homes and communities, reducing demand on already stretched State resources and the HSE. The services carers provide should be remunerated accordingly. I feel quite strongly about that, given the savings their selflessness generates for the Exchequer.

I propose a debate in this House on introducing a graduated scale that could be developed to help quantify the work done by carers across a broad spectrum. This scale could be used on a case-by-case basis to ensure fairness and responsiveness to individual situations. I have no doubt that by restoring the cuts to carers and creating a system that better supports them in their work, their families, communities and the institutions of our State will benefit. I acknowledge the tremendous work done by carers the length and breadth of the country.I sincerely hope we will be able to debate this issue and consider the introduction of a graduated scale for carers. I hope this matter will be given priority.