A Sligo-Leitrim TD spoke out on the motion of support for carers in the Dáil today, backing to abolish the carers allowance means test.
There are calls for all-party support, to provide financial stability and recognition to family carers across the country.
It is estimated that family carers in Sligo save the state around €260m every year, Leitrim €120m, and Donegal €600m.
Deputy Marian Harkin stressed that the current scheme undervalues care and those that work within the system.