Govt announces social welfare boost for carers

The Government has announced new regulations allowing carers to receive their full social welfare payment together with half their carer's allowance.

The initiative, which will cost an estimated €57m-a-year, comes into effect from today.

Social and Family Affairs Minister Martin Cullen says it will boost the income of around 18,000 carers by more than €100-a-week.

An advertising campaign is also being launched to raise awareness of the new scheme.