9,000 more carers to get annual respite grant
An additional 9,000 carers are to receive the annual respite care grant this year as a result of a move by the Minister for Social and Family Affairs, Seamus Brennan.
The minister said the payment is being made available to all full-time carers looking after the elderly or people with a disability and will not be means-tested.
He said the move, which comes into effect next month "is aimed at recognising the valued role carers play in society".
The grant, which allows carers to take a break, has been increased to €1,000.
More than 23,000 people receive the support.
