Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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2435. To ask the Minister for Health if he plans to establish a carer's commission to address the issues being experienced by family carers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34168/21]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy will be aware, my Department is responsible for coordinating the cross-departmental National Carers' Strategy and leading on the health aspects of the strategy. Within this context, there are a number of fora through which my Department regularly communicates and consults with key stakeholders, including groups representing the interests of family carers. Last September, the Minister for Older Persons and Mental Health held a carers round table to listen to the concerns raised by family carers, including their experience during the Covid-19 pandemic. My Department also actively participates in the Annual Carers' Forum organised by the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection.

The Programme for Government commits to an update of the National Carers Strategy which is a priority for my Department. My Department is committed to consulting widely with key stakeholders in the context of the planned update.