Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 May 2023
394. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason the maximum possible rate for carer’s allowance was not approved in the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24011/23]
View answerCarer's Allowance (CA) is a means-tested social assistance payment made to a person who is habitually resident in the State and who is providing full-time care and attention to a child or an adult who has such a disability that as a result they require that level of care.
I can advise the Deputy that separate applications for CA were received from the person concerned on 31 March 2023 and 3 April 2023 in respect of two care recipients.
It is a condition for receipt of a CA that the person being cared for must have such a disability that they require full-time care and attention.
Full-time care is defined as requiring, from another person, continual supervision and frequent assistance throughout the day in connection with normal bodily functions or continual supervision in order to avoid danger to him or herself and likely to require that level of care for at least twelve months.
It is also a condition for receipt of CA that the carer must be providing full-time care and attention. The time spent providing care each week must not be less than 35 hours per week over 5 to 7 days.
The evidence submitted in support of both applications was examined and the Deciding Officer decided that this evidence did not indicate that the requirement for full-time care was satisfied for either care recipient.
The person concerned was notified on 8 May 2023 of both decisions, the reasons for them and of their right of review and appeal.
I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
