Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
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99. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if there is provision within the budget of Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, to provide a payment (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13528/15]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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Fostering care allowances are provided in order to allow foster carers meet all of the child’s daily living needs, e.g. food, clothing, school uniform, school books, extra-curricular activities, school trips, pocket money (depending on the age of the child), and treats such as toys, games or holidays. The foster care allowance is currently €325 per week per child up to 12 years of age, and €352 per week per child over 12 years of age. The foster care allowance is tax exempt.

Respite care is defined in the National Standards for Foster Care as ‘short term care provided to a child in order to support the child, his or her parent(s) or foster carers by providing a break for the child and his or her primary caregivers’. It is acknowledged that respite care can play an invaluable role in supporting children to remain at home, and during placement breakdown.

Where a child is in care, the issue of respite periods would be considered in the context of the best interests of the child. Respite care would not feature in all placements, and would normally be included as part of the child's care plan if it is to be availed of during the placement. Where planned respite care is for a period of less than a week, then a pro-rata payment is made based on the foster care allowance for a full week. In relation to the particular issue, I have asked the Child and Family Agency to comment and I will revert to the Deputy when this is to hand.