Tipperary TD calls for greater supports for carers

TD Michael Lowry spoke during the Regional Group Private Members Bill, which seeks to end
Means Testing for Family Carers.

During the meeting the Tipperary TD emphasised the critical contributions and challenges faced by family carers across Ireland.

MORE SUPPORTS

He noted that "approximately 500,000 people nationwide, including 10,000 in Tipperary, are caring for family members with serious illnesses, disabilities, or complex needs. These carers provide 24/7 support, often without formal training or breaks, putting their own lives on hold to ensure their loved ones can remain in their homes and communities". 

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Lowry also noted that by increasing supports and the general wellbeing of carers in the country, the state would also save an estimated €20 billion annually by reducing the need for state-funded care facilities.

MEANS TESTING

Lowry urged the state to support the end to means testing payments for carers and called it "unjust and
indefensible".

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He criticised the current system, which considers the income of other family members in the household when calculating the Carers Allowance, as unfair and undermining the invaluable work of carers.