Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent)
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565. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs to direct Tusla, the Child and Family Agency to review the application of its policy which states there must be no more than 40 years in age between a foster parent and foster child; the number of foster children in placements where this age gap is exceeded; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16695/16]

Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent)
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The age of the carers is never the sole reason for deciding on the suitability of a placement for a child in State care. It must be emphasised that the 40 year age difference between a foster carer, or relative foster carer, and foster child is only a guideline, not a policy, and does not determine a decision regarding suitability. It is more important that the relative carer has the ability to meet the needs of the particular child or sibling group. The potential carer's age is just one of many factors that is taken into account, including health, level of co-operation and communication with social service and the ability to meet all the needs, including any specialised need, of the child.

Placement endings are made following careful consideration of the best interest of the child and, where appropriate, oversight by the courts. The Child and Family Agency, Tusla does not collect data at a national level on the ages of relative foster carers and the children placed with them. At the end of April 2016, 28% of all children in care were in a foster care placement with relatives, many of whom are grandparents.

Tusla is currently in the process of planning a review of the criteria used by foster care committees in decision making.