Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 October 2022
474. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Social Protection if foster parents can apply and receive the domiciliary care allowance for foster children in their care; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53293/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraDomiciliary Care Allowance (DCA) is payable to a parent, including a foster parent, or guardian in respect of a child with a severe disability or condition who requires additional care and attention substantially in excess of that normally required by a child of the same age and where that care is provided in the applicant's home.
DCA is payable to the person, including a foster parent where applicable, who is providing for the child's care, in their own home while the child resides with that person for at least 5 days each week.
A foster parent should apply for DCA once they consider that their foster child may satisfy the conditions for DCA. Any documentary information that is available from the relevant authority (HSE / TUSLA) relating to the child's placement details with the foster parent should also be provided with the DCA application for consideration by a deciding officer.
Where an existing DCA claim is in payment in respect of a qualified child and the child subsequently transfers to the care of another person in their home, including a foster parent, that person may also apply for transfer of payment in respect of the qualified child, subject to satisfying all required conditions for receipt of payment.
I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
