Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 3 June 2021
310. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection if a person (details supplied) is in receipt of all social welfare payments they are entitled to under the social welfare code; if application forms will be provided for payments they may qualify for; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30438/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraCarer's allowance (CA) is a means-tested social assistance payment, made to persons who are providing full-time care and attention to a person who has such a disability that they require that level of care.
If a person is in receipt of another social welfare payment in their own right (other than unemployment payments or supplementary welfare allowance) or being claimed as a qualified adult on their spouse/partner's payment, a half-rate CA can be paid as long as all the normal conditions for receipt of CA are satisfied.
These conditions require that the applicant is habitually resident in the State, must be providing full-time care and attention to a person who has such a disability that they require full-time care and attention and their means must be below the statutory limit.
The person concerned is in a receipt of a State Pension (Contributory) pension. As he currently satisfies the qualifying conditions, CA is paid at half-rate.
CA recipients automatically qualify for the Carer's Support Grant (CSG), an annual payment of €1,850, which is not means-tested or taxed, Free Travel and, if they are living with the care recipient, the Household Benefits package.
They can also register for a GP Visit card through the Health Service Executive.
The person concerned is in receipt of all payments he is entitled to under the Carers Allowance scheme. Further information on all Social Welfare entitlements is available on www.gov.ie.
I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
