The annual Respite Care Grant is to be increased from €1,500 to €1,700 a year, Minister for Social and Family Affairs Mary Hanafin has announced.
The grant, which was introduced in 1999, is designed to allow full-time carers an opportunity to take a break from their duties.
More than 48,000 carers in Ireland will benefit from the funding at an estimated total cost to the state of over €90 million.
"The Government is committed to supporting people who are caring for their loved ones, and this additional grant can be used by the carer to support them with their caring responsibilities," said Ms Hanafin.
"I cannot emphasise enough how important it is that the work of carers is recognised and acknowledged by practical support measures, such as the Respite Care Grant.
"A break from caring is one of the greatest needs identified by family carers. By increasing the Respite Care Grant to €1,700, we are providing a significant contribution to enable carers to get a much deserved break which can benefit them as well as their family members," added the minister.