Seán Sherlock (Cork East, Labour) | Oireachtas source

If there were some evidence of this it would assist me, and perhaps the committee, in advocating for those foster carers. If this is the case and we have the proof of it, we can ask where the Department was in its engagement with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. We can ask why we have been left with a situation whereby foster carers feel extremely patronised by the fact the allowance was a paltry sum by any objective analysis. The great job they do is acknowledged in the language that is used but concrete supports are not forthcoming in real terms. I acknowledge there is a strategic plan but I am not sure whether, following what happened with the budget, foster carers now have confidence in that. There is a political element to this. There needs to be engagement with Government parties on the non-delivery of supports. If it is the case that Tusla has actively advocated then, I say "fair play" to it. This must be acknowledged and there is a line of questioning that must be pursued with the Minister.

What is happening with Positive Care Ireland? Has it been wound down? Is it still in existence? What is its status?