Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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63. To ask the Minister for Social Protection the correct carer’s allowance or alternative allowance applicable in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6590/15]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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The person in question is currently receiving carer’s allowance (CA) for the care of her daughter. The weekly CA payment she receives is €218.90 per week. This payment consists of a personal rate of €204.00 and €14.90 (half-rate) increase for qualified child (IQC) for the child dependent who is in full time education. The person concerned is also in receipt of a household benefits package and a free travel pass.

A full-rate IQC is paid with CA only if you are parenting alone. A half-rate IQC is paid in respect of a child dependent if you are living with your spouse, civil partner or cohabitant. Where the care recipient is also a dependent child of the carer, no additional IQC is payable for him/her. An increase for an adult dependant is not payable with the CA scheme.

The Department confirms that the correct amount of CA is in payment to the person concerned based upon the circumstances as presented. The partner of the person concerned is advised to contact their nearest Intreo Office or Citizens Information Centre whereupon any other possible social welfare entitlements appropriate to his circumstances can be outlined to him.