‘The few bob given to us is pittance’
Six years ago Thomas, who had arthritis, emphysema and diabetes, was diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which limits the flow of oxygen to the lungs.
The condition is predicted by the World Health Organisation to be the leading cause of death worldwide by 2020.
Thomas is “on an oxygen mask” most days and has significant mobility problems.
Bridie says the financial support she receives from the State to care for her husband is a “pittance”, with the prospect of it being reduced leaving her potentially unable to care for him.
“Sligo Hospital diagnosed Thomas with COPD in 2002, but I’ve really been a carer for the last 20 years because of some of the other issues.
“The few bob that is given to us is pittance when you think about the regular costs and expenses people have — heating, groceries — on top of the care expenses.
“I’m entitled to a full pension and I should be, I get the half-rate allowance with that, but I don’t think it is adequate at all, particularly when you think about how much money carers are saving the State.”
Due to the situation facing Bridie and Thomas, who met in London before coming back to Sligo to raise six children, she says the elderly couple have “no money left over” at the end of every week.
Their children have moved away, she says, meaning that Bridie needs the slim financial support from the State if she is to continue to care for her husband in their home.
“It’s just myself and Thomas now. The carers’ allowance is pittance, but it is still a help.
“I don’t know what we’ll do if it’s taken away or reduced, but I do find it ironic.
“We’re saving the State so much money, and what Hanafin doesn’t seem to realise is that if the allowance is taken then that will end up costing the State more.
“It wouldn’t be in their interest to do it. There’d be outcry if they did,” she said.
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