Cecilia Keaveney
Ceist:207 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will address the inquiries made of him by the Foster Care Association (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5398/01]
Written Answers. - Foster Care Association.
In his budget speech, the Minister for Finance announced proposals to restructure the foster care allowance scheme. This was in response to the recommendations of the forthcoming report of the working group on foster care. In line with the report's recommendations, foster care allowances will be increased as follows – for children under 12, the allowance will increase from £71.55 to £200 per week and for children of 12 years and over, the allowance will increase from £85.75 to £220 per week.
All other payments over and above the basic foster care allowance will be abolished. The proposed revision of the foster care allowance scheme is in accordance with the consensus view expressed by foster carers and professionals dur ing the consultations undertaken by the working group. The working group proposed that the cost of medical services not covered by medical card, and educational fees should continue to be met by the health boards. The details of the revised payment level will be finalised soon and a circular issued to all health boards. The new rates will be paid with effect from the end of July 2001.