Carers hopeful of respite cut reversal

More than 200 families will make a last ditch attempt to stop politicians from voting in favour of a planned 19% cut to the respite carers’ allowance during a Dáil protest today.

The public protest, which begins at 1pm, has been organised by the Carers’ Association, the members of which have are outraged at the cuts to the vital funding.

Under budget plans announced last week, the annual carers respite allowance — used to support people looking after loved ones with serious mental and physical health issues — has been cut from €1,700 to €1,375.