Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 16 January 2013
494. Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Social Protection if she has met with the carer's association since her appointment; if she plans to meet with them again in the near future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1341/13]
View answerI met with the Carers Association as part of the pre-budget forum on 16th September, 2011 and again on 12th October, 2012. These fora are attended by about thirty representative organisations, including the Carers Association. Each of the organisations has the opportunity to present their key priorities for consideration in advance of the budget. My officials meet two to three times a year with the Carers Association as part of a structured dialogue with a range of community and voluntary groups. These meetings are normally co-chaired by the Deputy Secretary General of my Department and by a representative of the groups.
My Department also hosts an annual meeting of carer representative groups. This includes representatives from Government Departments and agencies involved in providing services for carers, and the broad spectrum of groups representing carers, the disabled and the elderly. In addition, individual meetings are arranged from time to time between my officials and the Carers Association to discuss particular issues as they arise. I am satisfied that these arrangements provide the opportunity for the Carers Association to engage in a meaningful way with my Department and to contribute to the development of policy in respect of carers.
