Changes in means test for carers will increase eligibility, says Burke

Changes to the means test for carers and other new supports have been welcomed by Minister of State Peter Burke.

The range of measures introduced last week by the Department of Social Protection will significantly increase the number of people eligible for the Carer's Allowance, Minister Burke says.

“My colleague the Minister for Social Protection, Heather Humphreys TD is introducing changes to the means test for carers, the first such change in 14 years. This means that many more people will now be eligible for the Carer’s Allowance.

“The capital disregard for carers will increase from €20,000 to €50,000. Furthermore, the weekly income disregard for Carer’s Allowance will increase to €350 per week for single carers, and to €750 per week for a couple.

“Separately, 2825 carers in Westmeath will be paid the annual Carer’s Support Grant. The annual grant of €1,850 was increased by Minister Humphreys in her first budget as Minister for Social Protection, in recognition of the vital role of carers and the contribution they make to society. It is available to all carers providing full-time care to an older person or a person with a disability, regardless of their means or social insurance contributions. It will be paid automatically to those who are receiving the Carer’s Allowance, Carer’s Benefit and those on Domiciliary Care Allowance schemes.

“Fine Gael is working to build stronger, safer communities. Carers make a hugely valuable contribution to local communities all across the country and Fine Gael in Government will continue to ensure they are supported, and this contribution is acknowledged.

"Carers save the state millions of euro and their work can often be thankless. It can be lonely for many and since my election in 2016, it has been a priority to fight for services to assist carers as well as increased financial support. We know we must increase respite and community therapies for many, as well as residential placements for those who are no longer able to be supported to continue being cared for at home," Minister Burke said.

Commenting on the changes to the means test, Minister Humphreys said:

“Since my appointment as Minister for Social Protection, I have listened closely to the views of carers the length and breadth of the country.

“Our carers have endured a particularly difficult two and a half years, dealing with extraordinary daily challenges posed by the pandemic.

“I am therefore really pleased to put into effect significant changes to the carer’s means test – the first such changes in 14 years.

“These changes are significant and will mean many carers currently on a reduced rate of payment due to means will now qualify for the full rate.

“Equally, thousands of carers who may not have qualified for a payment at all up to this point will now be brought into the net.

“I want to take this opportunity to thank all carers in Ireland for the vital and valuable contribution you play in our society and in all our local communities. Your commitment and work in supporting those that need help and support is hugely important and is greatly appreciated.”