Allowance for carers to rise

An information campaign to raise awareness of Budget improvements to the carers' allowance begins next week.

An information campaign to raise awareness of Budget improvements to the carers' allowance begins next week.

The changes, costing £18 million, include granting benefit to those receiving a Domiciliary Care Allowance along with entitlements to free travel and free telephone rental.

Making the announcement yesterday the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs, Mr Ahern, said an additional 3,300 people will qualify for the scheme.

The information campaign will include media advertisements, mailshots and information leaflets. A freephone service, 1800 400 400, will operate from May 24th to 28th.