Carers Association Calls For More Support For Members

The Government will today be called on to give more support to carers across Ireland. The Carers Association will present its pre-Budget submission to TD’s and Senators, where it will highlight the Government’s need to implement a committed national carers strategy.

Family carers from around the country will join Enda Egan, CEO of The Carers Association, in his bid for more cash from the politicians.

The submission calls for improvements and supports for family carers in remuneration, tax, health care, training and information as well as assistance for young carers.

Established in 1987, the Carers Association is Ireland’s national voluntary organisation for and of family carers in the home.

It claims thousands of people give high levels of care to the frail and elderly, people with severe disabilities, the terminally ill, and children with special needs.

It believes the vast majority of Ireland’s family carers still remain without vital services, such as in-home respite.

In last year’s budget, the Carers Allowance was increased from €180 to €200 for those caring for a person under 65, and €200 to €218 for those caring for someone over 65.

The Respite Care Grant was also given a boost.