December 2007

COST OF DISABILITY PAYMENT SHOULD HAVE BEEN INCLUDED IN BUDGET 2008 - INCLUSION IRELAND

Inclusion Ireland CEO Deirdre Carroll has expressed her disappointment that a Cost of Disability Payment based on an assessment of need is not to be introduced with Budget 2008.

“It is now time that moves are made in respect of this provision, as it would recognise that people with a disability have additional costs as a result of their disability regardless of their position in society.

“I welcome the decision to increase the Respite Care Grant by €200 to €1700, as well as the decision to increase the Disability Allowance and the Carer’s Allowance.

“The Minister also announced that the commitment in the Programme for Government to treble the income eligibility limit for medical cards for parents of children with an intellectual disability under 18 will not be introduced until a review is completed in Autumn 2008. The Review must be completed as soon as possible due to the massive financial burden of medical expenses.”

ENDS

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