Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 July 2026
458. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Social Protection the exact number of recipients of carer's allowance who are currently in receipt of a reduced rate of payment rather than the maximum rate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53113/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraCarer's Allowance is a weekly social welfare payment to people who provide full time care and attention to another person due to their age, illness, or disability. The rate payable for Carer's Allowance depends on the age of the carer and the number of persons they are providing care for. From July 2nd 2026 the income disregard for Carer's Allowance was increased to €1,000 per week for a single person, and to €2,000 per week for a couple. There are currently 108,956 recipients of Carer's Allowance. In total, 38 people, or fewer than 0.04% of recipients, are now in receipt of Carer's Allowance at a rate other than the applicable maximum rate.
