26 October 2001
CHP Welcomes Support for its homecarers’ allowance

Party Leader Graham Capill has welcomed the announcement by Peter Dunne MP that his Party has decided to support the CHP’s call for a Homecarers’ Allowance.

“All parties that take the family seriously ought to be considering this option. For too long we have looked at the economic costs of such a policy, overlooking the social costs of not encouraging greater input by parents to the lives of their own children,” Mr Capill said.

“The CHP has for years promoted a policy of initiating a homemakers’ allowance for married couples with dependent children. It would be implemented by giving a regular payment to the spouse at home caring for children. It is great to see Mr Dunne announcing his Party’s support for this policy.

“The Government’s proposed paid parental leave package discriminates against women who stay at home rather than working full time. A homecarers’ allowance recognises the invaluable work done by spouses who choose to make raising children their top priority.

“The results of such commitment are clearly evident in studies done around the world. Children are better educated, socially more balanced, are less likely to be abused or end up in crime, and generally have a brighter future. The CHP hopes the government will also see the merits of this policy and join the growing number of people calling for such an initiative, Mr Capill concluded. END

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