Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 3 December 2020
59. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of persons who will benefit from the carer’s support grant in 2021; if this payment was increased in budget 2021; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39718/20]
View answerThe Carer’s Support Grant (formerly called the Respite Care Grant) is an annual payment for people who provide care for certain people in need of full-time care and attention. The grant is paid in respect of each person being cared for, to take account of the additional costs and challenges of providing care in those circumstances. The grant can be used for a variety of purposes, including meeting heating and other household bills, providing for much needed holiday breaks, and paying for respite for the care recipient. The Carer's Support Grant will increase from €1,700 to €1,850 in 2021, which is the highest rate at which it has been paid since it was first introduced. The grant is not means-tested and is not taxable. The increase will take effect on the date on which the 2021 payments are issued for the estimated 130,000 recipients. The grant is usually paid on the first Thursday of June each year.
