Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 13 October 2022
321. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth his plans, if any, to link a foster carer's allowance in an incremental way, just in the same way that a clerical officer would have their income increased; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50828/22]
View answerFoster carers are paid at a rate of €325 per week for a child under 12, and €352 per week for a child over 12 and under 18. In certain circumstances, where the necessary criteria are met, enhanced and additional payments may be made.
In addition to the foster care 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. Respite care for children may be arranged if it is part of their care plan.
The foster care allowance is one element of the support that Tusla provides to carers when they offer a home and care to children some of whom may have additional, and sometimes significant, needs.
Myself and the CEO of Tusla met in the aftermath of the budget, and discussed the issue of supports to foster carers. I recognise that foster carers, like many others, are experiencing cost of living pressures and both myself and Tusla want to respond to this in a positive and meaningful way.
Following this engagement it has been agreed that a single additional once-off cost of living payment in respect of each child in foster care is to be paid as soon as practicable. The payment is to be made at the current foster care allowance rate of €325 for a child under 12 and €352 for a child over 12. It is the intention of Tusla and my Department that the payment should issue before the end of 2022, to all applicable cohorts of foster carers.
My Department has no plans to introduce an incremental scale in respect of the foster care allowance.
I will continue to work with Tusla in the coming months to improve the supports available to foster carers. I will also pursue an increase in the current rate of the foster care allowance in future budgets.
