With Budget 2027 falling on the same day as European Carers Day, family carers Ireland expressed how the timing gives government “a clear opportunity to turn recognition of family carers into action.”
Early reports for Budget 2027 suggest that the limit on how much people can earn while still retaining the careers allowance of €270 per week may be scrapped. Sharon Foley, Chief Executive Officer of Family Carers Ireland stated that “The Government has already done most of the heavy lifting on the Carer’s Allowance means test. Budget 2027 is where it decides whether to finish the job.
Pre budget reports suggest that the weekly rate of carers allowance may only increase by €7.50 in 2027. This is down 25% from 2026, when carers allowance was increased by €10 in the weekly allowance. This reduction in supports “would represent a failure by the Government” Family Carers Ireland said.
A report from Family Carers Ireland in 2026 revealed that 71% of carers are unable to make ends meet based on their current incomes. Speaking on this Ms Foley explains that the “Government cannot put energy costs at the centre of Budget 2027 while overlooking family carers. “If Budget 2027 is serious about helping households with energy costs, it cannot leave family carers freezing in the homes where essential care is being provided.”
Another worry for family carers is fuel allowance. Currently, only 4% of those who receive carer’s allowance also receive fuel allowance. Family Carers Ireland are calling on this to be increased as many carers are spending long periods at home which results in higher heating, electricity, transport and household costs because of the care they provide.
Family Carers Ireland is calling on Government to increase Carer’s Allowance and Carer’s Benefits to €325 per week. To also raise the annual Carer’s Support Grant by €150 to €2,150, fully fund the Carer Guarantee and deliver a right to appropriate, free and regular respite.
Ms Foley stated that “The ESRI’s projections make clear that family care will become even more important as Ireland’s population ages and the need for care increases.”
“The report concludes that if family carers are to remain a core component of Ireland’s long-term care system, additional supports and targeted policies will be essential, tailored to the nature and intensity of the caring role.”