There are currently 25,077 persons receiving carer's allowance. This is the highest total since the scheme was introduced. My Department received 8,846 applications for carer's allowance in 2005. A total of 8,793 were decided, of which 5,066 applications were awarded and another 960 were withdrawn. The number of persons who had their initial application for the allowance refused was 2,767.
Following the submission of additional medical information or other relevant information to my Department, a number of these applications were subsequently reviewed. Some 792 refusals were either revised in favour of the applicant or awarded on appeal. As a result, the number of persons who were refused the allowance was 1,975. Accordingly, the rate of refusal for the allowance is 22% of all applications that were received in 2005.
The reasons these 1,975 did not qualify for the allowance are as follows. Some 966 applications were refused as the care was deemed to be not in need of full-time care and attention; 199 applications were refused as means were in excess of the weekly limit; 106 applications were refused as the carer was employed in excess of ten hours per week; 193 applications were refused as full-time care and attention was not being provided; and 58 applications were refused as the habitual residence condition was not satisfied. The remaining 453 claims were refused for other reasons. All persons who apply for carers allowance are informed regarding any decision on their entitlement and the reasons for it. In addition, where a person is refused the allowance he or she is advised of a right of appeal to the Social Welfare Appeals Office.
Support for and recognition of carers is a continuing priority for Government. Payments to carers have been improved and qualifying conditions for carers allowance have been significantly eased. Coverage of the scheme has been extended and new schemes such as the respite care grant have been introduced and enhanced. The further development of support for carers continues to be a priority for me and for Government as reflected in the various budget enhancements I am providing for in 2006.