Carers in Kilkenny accessing state pension for the first time - Phelan

Almost 500 carers across Ireland have been awarded a State Pension for the first time, Fine Gael TD, John Paul Phelan has said.

Deputy Phelan said “I am delighted to see that 1,145 carers have been awarded over 20 years of Long-Term Carers Contributions.

“Of this, 474 carers across Ireland who are over 66 are now receiving a pension for the first time.

“The introduction of this scheme in January 2024 was about recognising the crucial role that carers play in homes and communities the length and breadth of the country, by ensuring long term carers will have access to the State Pension (Contributory) when they reach pension age.

“This is a major benefit for people who have cared for their loved ones for years and who are now finally receiving recognition for all their hard work.

“It is essential that we recognise and value the important role that our carers play in society, and these measures have been a key step in doing so.

“Minister Humphreys and Fine Gael have made supporting carers a priority, having introduced five key measures:

• Providing pension contributions to long term carers
• Reforming the means test for carers allowance so more carers can qualify
• Increasing the Carer’s Support Grant to €1,850 – it’s highest ever level
• Increasing weekly carer’s payments by €29 in the last three Budgets
• Prioritising carers in the cost-of-living lump sum payments

“I’d like to remind carers in Kilkenny who think they might be eligible, that they can apply for Long-Term Carers Contributions online at MyWelfare.ie.

“If you have been providing full-time care for less than 20 years, you may be able to avail of the Home Caring Periods Scheme.

“We have done a lot to support carers but there is more work to do. Carers across Kilkenny can be reassured that they will always be a key priority for Fine Gael”, concluded Deputy Phelan.