Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 April 2023
1257. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the payment assistance that is available for relative foster carers; the criteria that they have to meet to avail of payments available to care for the children of their family; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17549/23]
View answerAs of January 2023 approximately 90% of children in care were being cared for by foster carers. 64.3% (3,597) of children in care were in general foster care and 25.9% (1,452) were in relative foster care.
Relative foster carers are paid a weekly allowance, which is a payment to meet the needs of the child in their care. The foster care allowance is currently €325 per week for a child under 12 years of age and €352 per week for a child aged 12 years and over. The allowance is not considered as means for social welfare purposes, and is not subject to tax. Enhanced and additional allowances can be paid in certain circumstances.
Article 5 of the Child Care (Placement of Children with Relatives) Regulations, 1995, (Assessment of relatives) outlines the assessment criteria in respect of relative foster carers.
The Regulations stipulate that Tusla shall not place a child with his or her relatives unless:
(a) The relative has furnished to Tusla:
(i) A written report by a registered medical practitioner on their state of health,
(ii) The names and addresses of two referees who are not related to them and whom Tusla may consult as to their suitability to take care of the child on behalf of the board,
(iii) All necessary authorisations to enable Tusla to obtain a statement from the Garda Síochána as to whether any convictions have been recorded against them, or against other relevant members of their household, and
(iv) Such other information as Tusla may reasonably require;
(b) An assessment of the suitability of the relatives and their home has been carried out by an authorised person;
(c) A report in writing of the assessment has been considered by a committee established under sub-article (2) of this article and the committee is satisfied, having regard to the said report and the information furnished to or obtained by Tusla pursuant to this sub-article, that the relatives are suitable persons to take care of the child on behalf of Tusla; and
(d) the relatives have received appropriate advice, guidance and training in relation to the care of the child."
