David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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Question 380: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of people processing applications for the respite care grant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27342/06]

Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)
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The Respite Care Grant is payable automatically to recipients of Carers Allowance, Carers Benefit and Prescribed Relatives Allowance, and in cases where a Constant Attendance Allowance is in payment in respect of the person being cared for.

Budget 2005 extended entitlement to the Grant to all full-time carers irrespective of means or contribution record but subject to certain conditions relating to the provision of full-time care and attention. A section was set up in my Department to process applications from people in this newly entitled category.

This section currently has a staff of 15, made up of 1 Assistant Principal, 1 Higher Executive Officer, 5 Executive Officers (4 posts) and 8 Clerical Officers. 2 of the Executive Officers work reduced hours and share one post. The total number of whole time equivalent posts allocated to the Respite Care Grant Scheme is 14.