Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 September 2024
673. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Health for an update on the Programme for Government commitment to develop and deliver a ‘carers guarantee’ that provides a core basket of services to carers, given that an organisation (details supplied) states that the current funding falls short by €3.1 million to deliver the original proposals in full. [36199/24]
View answer676. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Health for an update on the progress made in delivering a carer’s guarantee. [36207/24]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 673 and 676 together.
Family carers are key enablers of Government policy to support people to live with dignity and independence in homes and communities of their choosing for as long as possible by providing vital care to some of our most vulnerable citizens. The essential role that family carers play in the provision of care in Ireland is fully recognised and appreciated by me and my Department. Every day, family carers through their selfless hard work, knowledge and compassion enhance the quality of life of the most vulnerable in our society.
Annually recurring funding of €2 million has been provided since Budget 2021 under the National Carers’ Strategy to improve equity of access to supports for carers across the country. This funding is an important step towards delivering on the Programme for Government commitment to develop a Carers’ Guarantee, providing a more standard package of supports to family carers in every region, in tandem with the community and voluntary sector. €1.9 million of this funding is being provided to Family Carers Ireland to deliver a mix of community and individual supports across five areas of activity:
• community carer supports;
• intensive and emergency supports;
• education and training;
• family Carer Ireland’s freephone careline; and
• psychosocial support.
The remaining €100,000 funds Care Alliance Ireland to deliver a professionally moderated online support group for Family Carers. The service promotes supports to assist family carers in carrying out their caring roles, thus allowing care recipients to be maintained in their own homes and communities.
