Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 6 July 2023
112. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Social Protection what engagement she has had with the Minister for Health on home care packages and the financial impact of those families in receipt of carers' payment who do not receive home care support. [32066/23]
View answerThe Government acknowledges the important role that family carers play in Irish society. This commitment is recognised in both the Programme for Government and the National Carers’ Strategy.The main income supports to carers provided by my department are Carer’s Allowance, Carer’s Benefit, Domiciliary Care Allowance and the Carer’s Support Grant. Spending in 2023 is expected to amount to almost €1.6 billion on these payments. The two principal conditions for receipt of Carer’s Allowance are that full time care and attention is required and provided, and that a means test is satisfied. Carer's Allowance acts as an income support for those who cannot earn an income due to their caring responsibilities. The application of the means-test not only ensures that the recipient has an income need but also that limited resources are targeted to those with the greatest need.The means test for Carer’s Allowance takes account of the income a person or couple has in terms of cash, property - other than the family home - and capital.When assessing an application by a family carer for income support, my department would not be aware of whether or not the caree is in receipt of a home care package, or any other Department of Health support. As such, these supports are not considered in the eligibility test for the carer.The provision and availability of home care packages is a matter for the Department of Health. I have not engaged with the Minister for Health as queried by the Deputy as the payments provided by my department paid to carers are made regardless of the services or supports provided by the Department of Health to the person being cared for.I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
