Brennan pledges benefits for carers

SOCIAL and Community Affairs Minister Séamus Brennan has promised family carers a package of benefits in next month’s budget.

But while Mr Brennan says he is anxious to recognise the work of the country’s 150,000 carers he still needs Government agreement on what he can include in the package.

Of particular concern to the Carers’ Association is the terrible hard times some carers endure because they are either entitled to a State pension or a carers’ allowance, but not both.

A spokesperson for the minister said he would also be seeking Government approval to draw up a national strategy for carers.

Mr Brennan, who met members of the association in Dublin yesterday to hear them outline their priorities, said he would be fighting hard at the Cabinet table on their behalf.

The campaign group has also called for a review of carers’ allowances and a review of the current criteria for the means testing of carers.

They also want medical cards for all full-time carers; the introduction of tax relief and a family carers’ tax credit.

The association’s chief executive, Enda Egan, said the Government must formally recognise the extent of the contribution made by family carers.

“Despite saving the State up to €1.6 billion a year, Irish family carers and young carers still face many inequalities,” he said.

Mr Egan said a national strategy must be developed which will contribute to improving the lot of a very vulnerable sector of society, ease pressure on the health service and, for minimal investment, lead to actual savings in the health budget.