THE Carers Association Limerick branch has hit out at An Bord Snip’s proposal to cut the Carer’s Allowance by 30 per cent.
According to manager Steffani-Jade McDonagh, up to 16,000 family carers will be affected if a reduction in the half-rate allowance of 110euro, introduced in 2007 after 10 years lobbying, is implemented.
“When we consider that the ESRI has forecast that a six per cent wage decrease may be required in public sector pay, it is grossly unfair that our family carers could be targeted for a 30 per cent cut,” observes Ms Mc Donagh.
Calling the proposed cutting of essential allowances “an absolute disgrace,” the Limerick manager argues that the cuts and mean-testing homecare packages “will seriously endanger the continuation of care in the home, which is Government policy”.
