Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 May 2021
845. Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Health if he will report on progress to implement the carer’s guarantee as committed to in the programme for Government; if provision will be made for recurring annual funding of €5.6 million in the forthcoming budget to fully implement this important initiative for family carers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24335/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government recognises that family carers provide selfless and dedicated care to their loved ones. We also recognise that the caring role can be challenging for carers, particularly in current circumstances. Our family carers deserve support to enable them to continue caring with confidence.
The Programme for Government commits to delivering a ‘Carers Guarantee’ that will provide a core basket of services to carers across the country, regardless of where they live. This commitment is consistent with the National Carers' Strategy, which seeks to support family carers to care with confidence through the provision of adequate information, training, services and supports. In line with this commitment, and as a first step towards implementing the Carers’ Guarantee, €2 million has been allocated in Budget 2021 to provide a more standard package of supports to family carers in every region, in tandem with the community and voluntary sector. Discussions are underway with the HSE to determine how this funding will be allocated.
The level of funding available for the Department of Health in 2022 and the quantum of services to be provided by the HSE will be considered as part of the Estimates and National Service Planning process.
