People who give up their jobs to become carers should have the right to continue pension payments and establish pension rights for the future.

This was stated by Marian Harkin MEP on Saturday, August 14th when she addressed a weekend retreat for carers organised by St. Angela’s College, Sligo.

She said:  “In the UK there exists the right for people to maintain their pensions by continuing contributions through the years when engaged in caring.  A similar decision can be made for carers in Ireland and indeed this is essential if they are not to be penalised at a vulnerable time in their lives having fulfilled such a hugely important role in society.

“In my role as President of the European Parliament’s Carers Interest Group and working closely with the 17 European countries involved in the Eurocarers organisation,  my aim is to ensure that the interests of carers are reflected in EU legislation and that pressure is maintained to advance the interests of carers and those needing care.

“In this regard future pension rights is an important issue which I and the organisations I am involved with in Ireland and in the EU will continue to pursue until a fair and equitable arrangement is obtained”, Marian Harkin MEP concluded.