Vital role of carers and foster parents recognised 

WITH improved support for carers identified as one of her campaign priorities, Clare General Election candidate Leonora Carey has said that Budget 2025 clearly shows that Fine Gael wants family carers to feel truly valued for their vital work.

“Fine Gael is supporting carers, foster parents, and those with disabilities by increasing allowances, support grants and lump sum payments. Carers will receive a significant package including an increase in the carer support grant to €2000,” she explained. 

“There’s a major increase in the carer’s allowance means test limits to €625 per week for a single person and €1250 per week for a couple as well as a €12 increase in the weekly payment for carers with thousands of carers across County Clare set to benefit.

“We are also extending the carer’s benefit to people who are self-employed. This is a significant step to recognise the hard work of those who may also be running their own business. Carers will also now be eligible to apply for fuel allowance. 

“A €400 lump sum payment for carers and two double payments in October and November will come as a welcome relief to so many carers that are working hard to support those that need their help. 

“We are also supporting people with disabilities, by increasing the domiciliary care allowance (DCA) for children with disabilities by €20. This will help support carers for children with a severe disability.

“Minister Humphreys has spearheaded major package for people with disabilities with a €400 cost of living lump sum payment for people getting disability allowance, invalidity pension and blind pension to be paid in November 2024.

“There’s also double disability payments in October and Christmas and a €12 increase in weekly disability payments, along with a €300 lump sum for fuel allowance.

“We also want to support families. The work foster parents do is invaluable and to help them we’re increasing the foster care allowance. 

“Fine Gael is working hard to deliver for carers and Budget 2025 is making huge advancements towards this, Ms Carey concluded.