Violet-Anne Wynne (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I acknowledge that the weekly payments have gone up. When the Irish Foster Care Association, IFCA, conducted a survey prior to the increase in the payments, 50% of the carers surveyed said they experienced financial difficulties due to their commitments to caring and have considered giving up fostering because they are worried about being able to provide an adequate level of care.

The Minister of State mentioned the home caring periods scheme, which can help to qualify carers for the State pension. However, it only applies to households where the children are under 12. If they are over 12, it applies where the children are disabled. High-needs fosters do not vanish at the age of 13. Tusla advises carers that they need to be on call 24-7. That is a prerequisite because the children are too traumatised to attend crèche full time and would have numerous medical appointments and birth-family access. A number of difficulties are at play.

I point to the fact that the home caring periods scheme is capped to a maximum of 20 years, which means talented long-term foster carers are unable to use it. That seems unnecessary and I raise that issue with the Minister of State.

I note that the Minister, Deputy O'Gorman, promised to liaise with the Minister of State's Department. The Minister of State has said that is happening. He also mentioned the webinar. If he could speak to any other headway that is being made, it would be great.

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