The South Belfast MLA said: “It’s time the Minister delivered for our carers. The value of carers in our society and economy cannot be underestimated and should never be taken for granted, and Alliance has continually challenged the Economy Minister to commit to introducing paid carer’s leave and consistently pushed for the publication of this research.

“Following my previous calls on the Minister to properly scope the introduction of paid carer’s leave, it is positive to see a clear cost-benefit analysis in this report.

“The research provides a clear set of proposals for consideration, and I have submitted a priority question to the Economy Minister, calling on her to assess the affordability of these options.

“It is now incumbent on the Minister to clearly outline her position on the proposals and to make a decision on the way forward. Alliance has continually championed meaningful improvements for carers and will continue to do so, including fighting for the provision of paid leave.”