Carers express their “hurt, rage, and disappointment” over the ongoing means test for the carers’ allowance, as discussed in the Dáil. Verona Murphy highlights that carers feel undervalued by the government’s decision not to abolish means testing in the recent Budget, despite an increase in the threshold. She questions Minister for Social Protection Heather Humphreys’ commitment to an inclusive Ireland, referencing the failed care referendum that cost €20 million and calls for the means test to be eliminated based on research conducted by the National University of Ireland, Maynooth.
Minister Humphreys defends her support for family carers, citing enhancements such as carers’ benefits for self-employed individuals and an increase in the domiciliary care allowance. She acknowledges the concerns regarding means testing but emphasizes the positive impact of recent changes in the budget. Check out further updates on the Budget 2025 to understand the announced increases in tax credits for carers.
Carers, essential contributors to the State worth €20 billion annually, continue to voice their struggles with means testing and financial challenges. While Minister Humphreys assures ongoing support and initiatives to address these issues, Independent TDs like Mattie McGrath call for immediate action to eliminate means testing and recognize carers as unsung heroes.
Stay tuned as the inter-departmental working group set up by Minister Humphreys aims to provide further insights and recommendations on this crucial matter before the end of the year.