I would like to thank the Deputy for the question. As you know, matters in relation to eligibility for state income support schemes, including jobseekers allowance, and relevant qualifying criteria, are a matter for the Department of Social Protection.
Tusla have informed me that the assessment of any foster carer must consider the foster carers expected availability to meet and support the needs of a child who has come into care. The assessment and approval process explores what type of care the prospective foster carer can best offer to a child depending on factors such as accommodation, the age of any children in their home, the carers availability and their experience.
Tusla does have working foster carers, but the main consideration will be the availability of potential foster carers to meet the child’s needs. For some children it will be necessary for one carer to be at home full-time.
It might also be noted that the foster care allowances payable by Tusla are not taken into account in means testing for social welfare purposes, nor are such allowances subject to tax. The allowance is one element of the support that Tusla provides to carers when they offer a home and care to children who have additional, and sometimes significant, vulnerabilities.
