Family carers’ plea on Budget

IRELAND’S 150,000 family carers are urging the Government to act on its promise to support them in next month’s Budget.

Enda Egan of the Carers Association said: “The Government has already pledged support - now is the time for action.”

Presenting the association’s pre-Budget submission to Government representatives in Dublin yesterday, Mr Egan emphasised the need for a national strategy of family carers.

“Family carers provide three million hours of care per week. This contribution must be valued and formally recognised by Government as an integral part of the health services,” he insisted.

And, he said, despite saving the State over €1.5 billion net per year, many carers were living just above the bread-line.

Key components of the strategy include:

* Comprehensive supports for family carers.

* Enhancing and supporting carers health and well being.

* An adequate and fair system of remuneration for carers.

The submission is also calling on the Government to consider giving tax breaks and medical cards to carers. Mr Egan pointed out that family carers, who constitute a very vulnerable sector of society, received none of the benefits enjoyed by other workers. And, he said, many carers were now juggling caring for a loved one with a full time job, a situation that was unsustainable.

He warned that the State’s resources would be placed under incredible pressure if carers find themselves unable to carry on caring for their loved ones.