More support needed for exhausted Laois Carers

A Laois TD is calling for increased support for carers in the upcoming budget.

Independent TD Brian Stanley spoke of the exhaustion and financial difficulties being endured by carers.

“I met last week in Tullamore with Laois /Offaly Family Carer’s and listened to what they had to say around the important work they do. They outlined the financial struggles Carers have to face, along with the lack of respite care.

“Carers spoke about been exhausted and in many cases having no access to respite, all the while continuing complex care 24/7, Statistics from a recent report show that 75% are getting no respite at all,” said Deputy Stanley.

“In some cases, elderly pensioners are caring for loved ones fulltime and yet only receive half carers allowance for the difficult job they are doing. This has to be addressed by Government. Carers need to be acknowledged and supported for saving the health service billions annually,” he said.

Dep Stanley said “I will continue to advocate for Family Carer’s Ireland, I am asking specifically for the Government to increase the weekly allowance to €325, have improved access to respite care and abolish the means test for carers allowance.

He said “Budget 2027 has to include progress on these three key issues so as to ease the burden on family carers.”