There will be a "revolution" if the Minister for Finance does not stop his "hard man, hatchet approach" to financial policy, the Dáil has been warned.
Labour's Social and Family Affairs spokesman, Mr Willie Penrose, made the accusation during questions about the carers' allowance and calls for the abolition of the means test. In an impassioned speech the Westmeath TD said "people who have given their hearts and soul to looking after people want some recognition, not charity."
The Minister for Social and Family Affairs, Ms Coughlan, said she was always prepared to consider changes in the existing schemes "where these are for the benefit of recipients and financially sustainable within the resources available to me".
She said that "the abolition of the means test for carers' allowance could cost in the region of €180 million. This is not feasible in present circumstances and in any event, it is questionable whether it would be the best use of such resources in the light of other demands."
Ms Coughlan said her Department was finalising a document for a consultation process on the financing of long-term care.
Mr Penrose said "we can find €180 million for anything. In her heart the Minister is willing to give it but the Minister for Finance, Deputy McCreevy, should realise there will be a revolution very soon if he does not stop this hard man, hatchet approach to financial policy."
