Healthcare workers in Fermanagh who receive Universal Credit will be impacted by financial losses when they receive back pay, it has been confirmed.

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has confirmed that the amount of Universal Credit a person receives is likely to be reduced if their earnings increase, including the receipt of back pay.

But he added that based on individual circumstances "a person may be eligible for a work allowance, enabling them to earn a certain amount before their Universal Credit payments are reduced". Claimants will also keep £0.45 of every £1.00 they earn over the work allowance.

The Minister added that no specific work is being done to review or change the rules on the treatment of earnings, which he says "apply equally to all Universal Credit claimants who receive earned income" - prompting much criticism from SDLP Councillor Adam Gannon who has criticised his approach.

"The minister has shown contempt for carers in his utterly dismissive response to providing financial support to carers," Councillor Gannon stated. "Gordon Lyons has essentially told carers he doesn't care and he won't do anything to help them. He just advises carers to apply for the paltry support available through Universal Credit. This is a disgraceful response."

Councillor Gannon explained the critical role carers play in Fermanagh, stating, "Carers give up many hours of their lives to support family and lose the ability to work full-time to financially support themselves. Without carers, our healthcare system would collapse instantly due to the huge lack of care packages available. The Minister fails to recognise that hospitals would essentially become care homes overnight without carers. I have to ask, is this ignorance or wilful denigration of the personal sacrifices carers make?"

He called for substantial changes, advocating for carers to receive, at minimum, a rate of support equivalent to the National Living Wage, double the current amount. He expressed frustration with the current political climate, saying, "Stormont ministers have power, they can make change, but like everyone else in the public, I'm fed up with excuses and finger-pointing from parties in government together.

"It is very clear Gordon Lyons has never had to care for a member of his family if he does not take action to provide additional financial support," said Councillor Gannon.