Carers’ aid cut despite doctor advice

Families caring for vulnerable relatives with serious mental and physical disabilities are being stripped of vital State supports despite the advice of doctors.

The Carers Association made the claim last night, warning that it is aware of dozens of cases of long- standing financial help being axed in a move that mirrors the discretionary medical cards scandal.

Speaking to the Irish Examiner before a major midweek meeting on the issue, the advocacy group’s spokeswoman Catherine Cox said the Department of Social Protection has recently begun “desktop” reviews of allowances to families.