Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick East, Fine Gael)
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Question 176: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if there has been any change in the carer's allowance on foot of the supplementary Budget of 7 April 2009 which might effect the status or levels of payment to a family where two children are being cared for and the mother is in receipt of carer's allowance in respect of their care; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21714/09]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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No changes were made to carer's allowance in the supplementary budget of 7 April 2009. In Budget 2009, I increased the rate of carer's allowance for those aged 66 or over by €7 to €239 per week and for those aged under 66 by €6.50 to €220.50 per week. These increases took effect from January 2009. Recipients of carer's allowance are also eligible for household benefits and free travel and the respite care grant. It is estimated that the combined expenditure on carer's allowance, carer's benefit, the respite care grant and half-rate carer's allowance will be €650 million in 2009.

Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)
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Question 177: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when a decision will be made on the application by a person (details supplied) in County Kerry for jobseeker's allowance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21719/09]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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The person concerned applied for jobseeker's allowance on 11 May 2009. His claim is currently with a Social Welfare Inspector for investigation of his circumstances. On receipt of the Inspector's report a decision will be given, and he will be notified of the outcome.