Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
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44. To ask the Minister for Social Protection her views on changing the qualifying criteria for the carer's allowance to allow those who care for high-dependency children with rare illnesses to qualify regardless of means; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22701/15]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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I should point out that the means test for carer's allowance (CA) has been significantly eased over the years, and is now one of the most generous means tests in the social welfare system - the income disregard is €332.50 per week for a single person and €665 per week for a couple

I am satisfied that the means test as it presently applies in respect of CA helps to ensure that the allowance is targeted appropriately, in supporting carers most in need – those who are on low incomes - and I have no plans to make any changes in this area.