Tax relief for elderly care will have ‘little effect’

New Government tax relief measures to help families care for elderly relatives at home will do little to cut waiting lists, it has been claimed.

Nursing Homes Ireland issued the criticism after Health Minister Leo Varadkar and Finance Minister Michael Noonan announced plans to beef up supports for families.

Under a joint move revealed last night, the departments of Health and Finance have agreed to boost existing tax relief for people caring for their elderly relatives at home, from €50,000 to €75,000 a year. The increase means families who can afford to spend this amount of money will be in a better position to look after “incapacitated” spouses, parents and others at home and without resorting to health service facilities.