Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 30 September 2015
38. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection if she will consider allowing discretion on the 15-hour week employment exemption under the carer's allowance scheme, where it has no impact on the level of care provided; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33020/15]
View answerA key qualifying condition for the payment of carer’s allowance is that the person receiving care is medically assessed as needing care on a full-time basis, while a person in receipt of carer’s allowance can engage in employment, self-employment, training or education outside the home for up to 15 hours per week and still qualify for the payment.
I am satisfied that this strikes a reasonable balance which allows the carer to engage in activity outside the caring environment while still satisfying the need to provide care and attention on a full time basis, and so I have no plans to make any changes in this area.
