Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
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Question 385: To ask the Minister for Social Protection the criteria for seeking carer's allowance (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3952/12]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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Under the governing legislation for receipt of carer's allowance the following conditions must be satisfied in order to meet the medical criteria. The person being cared for must:

· Need continuous supervision and frequent help throughout the day with their personal needs, such as walking and getting about, dressing, washing, eating and drinking or

· Need continuous supervision to avoid danger to themselves and

· Need full-time care and attention for at least 12 months and

· Have the nature and extent of their disability certified in the prescribed manner by a medical practitioner.

Having had an entitlement to carer's benefit does not automatically confer an entitlement to carer's allowance. Each application for carer's allowance is considered on its own merits in accordance with the relevant legislation. The decision is based upon the information and medical evidence provided by the applicant on and with the relevant application form in support of the application.