Those who have provided care for over 20 years are set to benefit.
Long-term carers are to benefit from better pension benefits.
Social Protection Minister Heather Humphrey has announced improved access to the State Pension for those who've spent over 20 years caring for an incapacitated relative.
It will see them provided with contributions for gaps in their social insurance records, making it easier for those caring long-term to qualify when they reach pension age.
Offaly Senator and Green Party Senator Pippa Hackett says:
"I welcome this change which will make it easier for a long term carer to qualify for a contributory State Pension.
Any period in which a carer is registered with the Department of Social Protection as providing full-time care, can be included in their PRSI record.
After a period of 20 years these can be used to claim the contributory State Pension.
This is a change which I believe will largely, but not exclusively, benefit women and it is important to recognise the value of their care to our society in this way.
Anyone can request a Contribution Statement which is a statement of their social insurance record in Ireland.
I encourage people to do so – it is an easy process for anyone with a MyGovID account.
While this Contribution Statement is not a forecast of their State pension, it is good practice to ensure that all contributions are correctly recorded, for example those made during periods of employment, periods of time as full-time carer for a child under the age of 12 and as a long term carer.
If you need support with this or any other social welfare query please contact my office.”
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