Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 July 2020
856. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the reason foster carers employed by the HSE cease to be entitled to contributory pensions for their years of fostering; the reason that many of them are not advised of same; if the HSE will consult the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection to create a pathway for such an entitlement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15497/20]
View answerPension contributions are governed by the employer and employee relationship and contractual arrangements. Similarly, where employment ceases any associated impact on pension rights may be communicated with regard to this framework. The determination of what constitutes employment for the purposes of calculating contributions for the State pension(s) is a matter for the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection.
To assist foster carers in their role, foster carers receive the Foster Care Allowance in respect of each child they are caring for. At €325 per week per child under 12 years of age and €352 per week per child aged 12 and over, this allowance is a significant fiscal support.
This allowance is not a salary. It is a payment made in respect of the child to allow foster carers to meet all of the child's daily living needs including food, clothing, basic travel, education costs and hobbies and sporting activities. It is tax free and is not considered as means for Social Welfare purposes. Therefore, it can be availed of by foster carers regardless of their income or employment status. It is thus a very flexible support which reflects the variety in the life and circumstances of the thousands of people in Ireland who are foster carers.
In addition to the allowance, foster carers receive a number of targeted supports to ensure they continue to function as a recognised and valued part of the alternative care system. Key elements of this support include a link social worker, access to training and support group meetings and the allocation of a social worker for each child in care. In addition, Tusla provides funding to the Irish Foster Care Association, which offers a range of supports to carers, including advocacy, mediation, training and a phone advice service.
Changes to the law in relation to credits for pension purposes are a matter for the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection.
