Budget 2013 has been largely slammed as an unfair budget once again targeting workers on low to middle incomes and those dependent on social welfare. One of the lowest blows delivered by the government is the savage 19 per cent cut to the carer’s respite grant. Carers are arguably the only group to work for their social welfare income; they work 365 days a year with no breaks, no bonuses and no recognition for a basic carer’s allowance of approximately €200 per week.
The 77,000 carers across the country are among Ireland’s lowest paid workers, despite saving the state over €4 million annually by selflessly caring for loved ones.
For some carers, the chance to avail of a much needed break is dependent on the Respite Care Grant, which will now be cut by €325 to just €1375 a year.
Responding to widespread calls for a government u-turn on the decision, Communications Minister Pat Rabbitte this week described the cuts as “modest”.
A measly sum of €325 may be modest to those earning a Minister’s salary, but to someone dependent on a carer’s allowance it is catastrophic, and feels like a slap in the face from a government that fails to recognize the value of a service that’s given free of charge.
While token measures such as a ‘mansion tax’ on homes valued over €1 million are sure to affect the wealthy, it is those already on the breadline who are bearing the brunt while our government representatives remain among the highest paid in Europe.
Understandably, Ireland’s carers have this week taken to the streets in protest.
Some cannot even afford to use the grant for respite care for their dependents and instead rely on it to help pay essential bills.
The government is facing intense pressure to reverse several Budget 2013 proposals. The Respite Care Grant cuts should be top of its list.