asked the Minister for Health the reason the boarded out allowance has been withdrawn from persons (details supplied) in County Louth; if he could have this matter reviewed in view of the financial circumstances involved; if he will arrange for any arrears of payment to be made retrospectively; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Boarding Out Allowance.
387.
The persons to whom the Deputy refers have been in receipt for some time of a boarding out allowance in respect of their grandchild. In view of changed financial circumstances of the household the health board decided it is now no longer necessary to continue with this type of financial assistance. I understand that the couple were notified of the board's intention to cease payment of the boarding out allowance last May although payment continued to the end of December. I should perhaps explain that the selection and recruitment of foster parents and the payment of boarding out allowances are matters for the local health board.