People who receive a carers allowance and who do not already have a free GP visit card are due to be given the card next year.

It will apply to carers who do not already qualify for a GP visit card, on means, or age grounds.

Minister for Health Simon Harris said he hoped this would be done by the middle of next year.

Cystic Fibrosis Ireland welcome the announcement made by Minister Harris. It is important to recognise that Carers play an important role in our society, for the people they care for and the whole community. This new initiative can help support the health, wellbeing and independence of carers and the people they care for.

Minister for Social Protection Regina Doherty said it demonstrated that the Government was listening and responding to the carers.

Meanwhile, the Department of Health has said that an extra €10m is to be provided for respite care for people with disabilities.

It said €8m will provide 12 dedicated respite houses around the country, one in each community health area, plus an additional three houses in the greater Dublin area to respond to the high demand.

An additional €2m will be used for measures such as home sharing and extended day services.

For more information on the GP Visit Card please visit the HSE website..