Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 July 2014
417. Deputy John Lyons asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection if she will consider extending the water allowance payment to all full-time carers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29711/14]
View answerAt its meeting on 6th May 2014, discussing Irish Water financing, the Government approved a financial assistance package from this Department which will be available from 2015 to those eligible for the existing household benefits package. The household benefits package is paid to 410,000 customers at an estimated cost of €230 million in 2014. The Department is currently preparing the necessary system changes and operational guidelines for the introduction of this new water support component to the existing household benefits package. The household benefits package is currently available to full-time carers who are in receipt of carer’s allowance from my Department and who are living with the person for whom they are caring.
