A local Aontú representative is calling on the Government to provide a timeline for commitments to family carers.
Aontú believes that with the Budget just a few short months away, this Government has to give a concrete timeline for its own commitment to abolish the means test for family carers allowance and it has to look at extending carers leave.
Aontú Monaghan rep Olivia Larkin has said "It is deeply unfair that family carers are still in the dark as to when the Government will honour its own commitment for the hundreds of thousands of people engaged in this care"
The issue was raised by Larkin's party colleague Senator Sarah O'Reilly in the Seanad.
Olivia Larkin notes "Alongside the question of the means test, there is also an urgent and pressing need to extend carers leave for those who dedicate their lives to supporting loved ones. Current provisions of a maximum of 104 weeks are wholly inadequate and do not reflect the reality of the sacrifices made by family carers, who often work without a break and with little recognition or support. Many are forced to choose between their own health and financial survival and the needs of those they care for. Without meaningful reform and an extension of carers leave, the Government’s promises risk ringing hollow once more. Family carers require not only the removal of punitive means testing, but also real, practical supports that allow them to rest, recover, and continue in their vital roles with dignity”.
