Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
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113. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection if medical evidence identifies that a child with severe disabilities is in need of two full-time carers, why both carers are not entitled to a full carer's allowance, as that is what the child needs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1224/16]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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Carer’s allowance is an income support payable where a person requires full-time care and attention. It is typically paid to a person, but where the caring duties are shared on a part-time basis in an established pattern, it can be paid to two people. In the case of the latter, the annual carer’s support grant will also be shared.

I should point out that there is also provision, where a person has an entitlement to carer’s allowance and their spouse, co-habiting or civil partner has an entitlement to another social welfare payment, for half-rate carer’s allowance to be paid in addition to the primary income support, and I have no plans to introduce any change along the lines proposed in the question.