Local Independent Deputy, Denis Naughten, is one of a group of elected representatives who is seeking an end to the means testing of family carers.
The Regional Group of Deputies has proposed a motion which seeks to replace the current system with a non-means tested scheme based solely on care needs, recognising the invaluable contribution of over 500,000 family carers across Ireland.
Family carers, who represent one in eight of the Irish population, have long been the cornerstone of care provision in the country. However, the current means testing of the Carer’s Allowance has left many carers in precarious financial situations, often dependent on a partner's income.
The ‘State of Caring Report 2022’, produced by Family Carers, Ireland highlighted the significant challenges faced by family carers, including the battle in accessing services and carers feeling undervalued by society.
Speaking this week, Deputy Naughten highlighted the need for legislative change.
“The recent referendum has once again shone a light on the critical role carers play in our communities. For too long family carers have been left behind without proper support from the State and this needs to end now. It is time for the State to recognise and support family carers adequately. We urge all Dail Deputies to back the motion that seeks to provide financial stability and recognition to family carers," Deputy Naughten said.
Catherine Cox, Head of Communications and Policy at Family Carers Ireland, supports the call for reform by Denis Naughten and his colleagues in the Regional Group.
“The means test for Carer’s Allowance is outdated, gender-biased, and no longer fit for purpose. Thousands of full-time family carers do not qualify for Carer’s Allowance due to modest household incomes, undervaluing the full-time work they provide. The introduction of a Participation Income would mark a significant step forward in acknowledging and supporting the vital work of family carers in our society," Ms Cox added.
The Regional Group’s Private Members motion proposes the introduction of a non-means tested payment for carers by 2027, with a significant increase in the income thresholds from now until that date; a move that aligns with the long-standing advocacy efforts of Family Carers Ireland for a more inclusive and supportive system for carers.
Lime spreading window
Meanwhile, Deputy Naughten confirmed this week that the Minister for Agriculture will not extend the window for spreading lime under the National Liming Programme despite the ongoing challenges as a result of poor soil conditions due to continuous rainfall over the last number of months.
Deputy Naughten, who raised the issue with the Minister in the Dáil, was told that the current date of June 28 will remain in place despite the challenges facing many farmers.
“The Minister acknowledges the challenging weather conditions and the difficulties faced by farmers in spreading lime. Yet, he fails to recognise that the extension until June 28 2024 is insufficient given the severity of the situation. The incessant rainfall has not only made lime spreading nearly impossible but also necessitated the imminent closure of lands for winter fodder.
“I urge the Minister to reconsider his stance on the lime spreading window ensuring that our farmers are not unduly penalised for circumstances beyond their control,” Deputy Naughten stated.
