Michael McCarthy (Cork South West, Labour)
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623. To ask the Minister for Social Protection the measures in place to assist family carers to avail of education and employment opportunities during their caring years to help and support them to re-enter the workforce when their caring role ends. [37621/13]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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The contribution that people provide in caring for members of their own family is critical for society and it was for that reason that the Government last year adopted the National Carers' Strategy - with a view to giving greater public recognition to carers and their work.

In recognition of supporting carers to maintain a link to the workforce, carers can work or engage in training for up to 15 hours a week outside the home. There are also generous income disregards for those on carer's allowance, €332.50 per week for a single person and €665.00 per week for a couple.

When the carer's caring responsibilities come to an end, staff members in the department's local offices are available to discuss options such as further education and training opportunities. When the person registers for Jobseeker's Allowance at an Intreo office, on-going supports are provided by the Intreo case officer.