Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)

I increased the income disregards in the last budget and I always look at everything. I have taken a number of steps in recent budgets. In November, a €400 lump sum was paid to people who receive the carer's support grant. A Christmas bonus of a double payment was paid to people who are in receipt of carer's allowance and carer's benefit. I have increased the domiciliary care allowance in successive budgets. It is now €340 per month. It is important to say the domiciliary care allowance is not means tested and goes to everyone who is caring.

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