Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 October 2022
508. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth when foster parents will receive his recently announced additional payment of child benefit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53287/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe CEO of Tusla and I met in the aftermath of the budget, and discussed the issue of supports to foster carers. I recognise that foster carers, like many others, are experiencing cost of living pressures and both myself and Tusla want to respond to this in a positive and meaningful way.
Following this engagement it has been agreed that a single additional once-off cost of living payment in respect of each child in foster care is to be paid as soon as practicable. The payment is to be made at the current foster care allowance rate of €325 for a child under 12 and €352 for a child over 12. It is the intention of Tusla and my Department that the payment should issue before the end of 2022, to all applicable cohorts of foster carers.
I will continue to work with Tusla in the coming months to improve the supports available to foster carers. I will also pursue an increase in the current rate of the foster care allowance in future budgets.
