Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 3 June 2004
212 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if, in the context of the next budget, payment of the respite grant could be made available to all carers caring for persons requiring some agreed minimum level of support; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15500/04]
View answerThe respite care grant operated by my Department is paid to recipients of carer's allowance and carer's benefit. It is also payable to carers who are caring for recipients of a constant attendance or prescribed relative's allowance. The grant is a contribution towards respite care to be used as the recipients wish. The expansion of this respite grant, as proposed by the Deputy or otherwise, would be a matter for consideration when proposals for the budget are being prepared later this year.
All other matters relating to the provision and availability of respite care generally are the responsibility of my colleague, the Minister for Health and Children.
