Government accused of giving carers false hope means test will be abolished

Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys acknowledged there is more to be done for carers. Picture: Gareth Chaney/ Collins Photos

The Government has been accused of giving carers a false expectation that the means testing of their allowance will be abolished.

During heated exchanges in the Dáil, Verona Murphy said that in the week since Budget 2025 was announced, she was contacted by carers who expressed hurt, rage, disbelief, and disappointment with the decision "not to recognise their contribution".

"They feel that their worth has not been acknowledged. Even though you widened the threshold, many of these carers won't ever make the threshold, particularly because of the false sense of expectation you gave them during the referendum on carers," she said. 

Addressing Minister for Social Protection Heather Humphreys, Ms Murphy said carers have asked for an explanation as to "why you believe it is OK to disregard their work and leave them solely dependent, in many cases, and making them vulnerable on others for income?"

The discussion descended into a shouting match as Ms Humphreys said: "Please don't come in here, deputy, and act as if I am not aware of any of these things. I talk to people too, I talk to people every day, I hear their concerns."

The minister acknowledged that there is more work to be done for carers but said they cannot do everything on the one day.

"I am their voice in government and I have made their case known and I have improved their situation," said Ms Humphreys.

'Talk is cheap'

As the minister was responding, Ms Murphy loudly called to her to "abolish the means test" and told her that "talk is cheap".

The ceann comhairle was forced to intervene saying that "all this shouting is bringing the house into disrepute".

Mattie McGrath said Budget 2025 leaves carers "in the shadows". 

He called them the unsung heroes of our society and criticised that increases granted would not take effect until next summer.

"One in eight people in Ireland provides unpaid care, saving the State billions, but where is their support? 

"Waiting until July 2025 is a slap in the face for them," the independent TD said.

"Will the minister show the compassion she needs to show? 

"Carers welcome it but why do they have to wait until next July to get it?"

Mr McGrath told the Dáil that providing intensive care for long periods without support negatively impacts carers' physical and mental health as well as financial status, with many facing long-term implications for health, wellbeing, and financial security.