Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)

In general, in terms of foster care, I consistently say that it is the best option for a child who needs to be taken into State care. It is a phenomenal opportunity being provided by people where they open up their homes. Also on the positives, we have been working hard to increase the number of new foster carers coming on board. This year we have seen the highest level. I acknowledge that the advertising campaign and promotion campaign on foster carers has been very strong. I am sure many Members will have seen it. It has been very positive. We have seen some improvements and I would like to see more as well. We specifically referenced the pension already. There is a programme for Government commitment on that as well.

We are doing a piece of work as well around kinship care. We must acknowledge that it is a reality for lots of people. I hope to make some announcements on that in the not-too-distant future. Any type of security that can be provided for a child must be supported. We recognise that there will always be different challenges, individual needs and individual challenges. I will revert to the Deputy as soon as we have matters finalised in that respect.