Means testing for Family Carers is ‘unfair and unjust’ - Lowry

"Family Carers play a crucial and irreplaceable role in homes across our country. Without them, there would be a catastrophic crisis in care for people of all ages," Deputy Michael Lowry said during Questions on Promised Legislation to Taoiseach Simon Harris in the Dáil on Tuesday.

"Family carers are ordinary men and women who are motivated by love. This love drives them to put a family member's needs before their own.

"They sacrifice their own plans and desires because a family member needs their care. This enables their loved one to be cared for while continuing to live in their home.

"However, when it comes to rewarding them for their vital role, Family Carers are subjected to Means Testing.

"Their vital work is completely disregarded. The fact that they save the State substantial money on institutional care is conveniently ignored. This is wrong. It is unfair and unjust. Taoiseach, means testing for Carers must be abolished," he said.

The Taoiseach responded that Minister for Social Protection, Heather Humphreys, has increased the income threshold for Carers Allowance. This will take effect from June, when a couple will be able to €900 per week and have €50,000 in savings yet still qualify for the full Carer’s Allowance.

He added that the Minister has also established an Interdepartmental Working Group with the Department of Health, tasked with looking at the area of Means Testing payments to Family Carers. ‘The work of this will be considered in the context of the National Carers Strategy and I expect to have that Report and be able to make informed decisions before the Budget.

Deputy Lowry concluded by referencing Regional Group Private Members Bill calling for an end to Means Testing for Family Carers which comes before the Dáil next week.

"I am asking that your Government support this Bill and make arrangements to drop the necessity of means testing and prove to Family Carers that their work is valued’ he said. The Taoiseach replied ‘We’ll very much consider the Motion that your Group will bring forward as well," he said.