Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 October 2022
509. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if his Department is undertaking a review of the monthly payments foster parents received to care for their foster children; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53288/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFoster 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.
Myself and the CEO of Tusla 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.
