Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 13 October 2022
323. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will outline the nature and extent of his engagements with the Taoiseach and CEO of Tusla (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50832/22]
View answerI met with the CEO and the Chair of the Board of Tusla as well as the chairs of board committees on the 29th of September 2022, as part of my scheduled quarterly meetings with the Tusla Board. The outcome of Budget 2023 was discussed during the meeting, including supports available to foster carers and options to explore further potential measures, such as the waiting period for foster carers until they are entitled to Child Benefit for the foster child placed with them amongst others.
The finalisation of Tusla’s Strategic Plan on Foster Care 2022-2025 was also noted. This plan will provide an opportunity for further discussion on crucial issues relating to foster care, and to supporting foster carers to continue to deliver high quality care to children in care.
Myself and the CEO of Tusla have had discussions in the aftermath of the budget, and further discussed the issues of supports to foster carers. Following this engagement it was agreed that a single additional once-off cost of living payment would be paid in respect of each child in foster care. 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 and under 18, and is intended to assist in alleviating the financial pressures foster carers are currently facing.
The Taoiseach has also spoken directly with me on the matter.
I am committed to working with Tusla on the issues raised in their Strategic Plan and in the consultations, including with foster carers, that contributed to its development.
I am aware that the Deputy and the Taoiseach discussed the matter of a meeting with the Irish Foster Care Association in Dáil Éireann on 5th October. I have agreed to meet with the IFCA and the meeting will take place before the end of the month. I will also be speaking at the IFCA Annual Conference on 5th November.
