Dáil Éireann Debate, Monday - 11 September 2023
1402. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he would consider providing a pension scheme for foster carers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37953/23]
View answerFoster 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.
The foster care allowance is payable to foster carers on behalf of and to offset expenses in relation to the child in foster care. Foster carers are not employees and accordingly Tusla does not make pension contributions on their behalf.
However, I am aware that eligibility in respect of the State Pension (Contributory) is an issue of genuine concern for foster carers. I have been advised that the Department of Social Protection has some measures available to recognise caring periods outside of paid employment in the calculation of a State Pension payment. Credit for Home Caring Periods may be awarded to a maximum of 20 years and foster carers are entitled to the benefits of this scheme, on the same basis as other carers, once certain qualifying criteria are met.
I can inform the Deputy that I have raised the issue of improved State Pension eligibility in respect of foster carers with the Minister for Social Protection and this engagement is ongoing.
