Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 617: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the proposals he has to pay arrears of half rate carer's allowance which is due to be introduced for those already in receipt of a pension from September 2007 back to January 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14313/07]

Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

In the Social Welfare and Pensions Act 2007 I have provided for new arrangements whereby people in receipt of a social welfare payment, who are also providing full time care and attention, will be able to retain their main welfare payment and receive another payment, depending on their means, the maximum of which will be equivalent to a half rate carer's allowance. A person currently in receipt of a carer's allowance, who may have an underlying entitlement to another social welfare payment, will be able to transfer to that payment and receive up to a half rate carer's allowance.

These new arrangements will apply to almost all weekly social welfare payments including state pension contributory and non-contributory and to people in receipt of qualified adult allowances. Recipients of jobseeker's allowance or benefit will not be eligible for the new arrangements, given the nature of these payments. This is in line with the arrangements which currently apply to receipt of the respite care grant. It is estimated that approximately 18,000 carers will benefit from this measure at cost of some €57 million in a full year.

There are significant administrative issues which must be addressed before such a reform can be implemented. The new arrangements will apply from September 2007 and financial provision has been made on that basis. As such, no arrears will be due. Towards 2016 commits the Government to continuing to review the scope for further development of the carer's allowance, carer's benefit and the respite care grant. I am committed to working for, and with, carers to deliver increased benefits, supports, and services for them and their families.