Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 May 2023
671. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will increase the foster care allowance payment rates to meet the rising cost of living; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24355/23]
View answerFirstly, I would like to acknowledge the important role of foster carers in Ireland. Foster care is the preferred option for children who cannot live with their birth family. Foster carers play a vital role in enabling our most vulnerable children to live in a safe, secure and stable home environment. Approximately 90% of children in care in Ireland are being cared for by foster carers.
I am aware of the fact that the rate of the foster care allowance has not been increased since 2009 and in this context, I am very conscious of the disappointment among foster carers that no increase to the foster care allowance was secured in Budget 2023. However, I can assure the Deputy that it will be a priority of mine to seek to secure an increase to the foster care allowance in the upcoming budget.
I will continue to work closely with Tusla and with my Government colleagues and any other relevant stakeholders seeking to review and improve supports available to foster carers.
