Cllr Patsy O’Brien calls for end to means-testing for carers

Cllr Patsy O’Brien has called for a significant policy shift regarding social welfare payments to carers in Ireland. 

The Independent candidate has argued that carers should no longer be subjected to means-testing, a practice he believes restricts the essential care that can be provided to the elderly and vulnerable in their own homes.

Currently, carers in Ireland are means-tested for social welfare payments, which Cllr O’Brien argues places undue financial strain on those who dedicate their lives to looking after family members and others in need. 

“Means-testing restricts the amount of care that can be given. Many carers are forced to limit the hours they work or, in some cases, give up caring altogether because they simply cannot afford to do it full-time without adequate support," he stated.

"Carers in Ireland are performing invaluable work, essentially taking on roles that would otherwise fall to the state. By allowing people to remain in their homes and communities for longer, they provide not only practical support but also immense emotional and psychological benefits.

“People prefer to live in their own homes as they get older, surrounded by familiar faces and environments,” Cllr O’Brien added.

“This sense of belonging and comfort is vital for their well-being. Carers make this possible, yet the current system fails to support them adequately.”

The Independent councillor highlighted that carers’ contributions save the state substantial amounts of money by reducing the need for residential care facilities and hospital stays. 

Family Carers Ireland have estimated that over 500,000 carers provide 19 million hours of care annually, saving the state an estimated €20 billion. 

"We need a system that values and supports carers, not one that penalizes them. Ending means-testing is the right thing to do, and it’s the smart thing to do for the future of our care system,” he concluded.

The former Fine Gael councillor is contesting the upcoming local elections on June 7 in the Claremorris Municipal Area as an Independent candidate.