Report calls for change in support for carers

RADICAL changes to the way the State supports carers will be called for today at the launch of a study that shows many family carers receive little or no official recognition.

Among the recommendations in the 130-page report are higher welfare payments, more flexible working arrangements for part-time carers, the scrapping of the means test and the removal of red tape blocking access to benefits.

Minster for Social and Family Affairs Seamus Brennan has signalled his broad support for the findings by agreeing to formally launch the report compiled by the Equality Authority.