Taxation of Sligo carers’ allowance ‘a despicable way’ to treat people who are ‘saving the State millions’

By Philip Rooney, The Sligo Champion

There was widespread support for a motion proposed by Cllr Thomas Healy calling on the Sligo County Council to “call on the Minister for Social Protection to urgently review the taxation on carer’s allowance/benefit payments to recipients where applicable, and exclude them from means test and increase the tax threshold immediately.”

Stressing the importance of the matter Cllr Healy’s motion stated, “It’s not a wage for them, but an allowance.”

The motion was supported by Cllr Arthur Gibbons who commented, “This is such a vital service, saving the State millions. A lot of people are panicking. If you find yourself in that situation contact the tax office.

The motion was also backed by Cllr Ann Higgins who said, “This is causing serious financial and emotional stress. It is a despicable way to treat our carers. Our carers do it because they love the person they care for."

Outlining the contribution carers make to the State, Cllr Higgins remarked carers represent a €20bn saving to the State annually. “They are effectively delivering their own health service,” said Cllr Higgins who added, “Carers deserve more certainty.”

Article Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.