Kathleen Funchion (Carlow-Kilkenny, Sinn Fein)
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225. To ask the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will confirm what measures he expects to take in budget 2024 to address concerns raised by foster carers in respect of pay and conditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15399/23]

Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party)
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Foster carers are paid a weekly allowance, which is a payment to meet the needs of the child in their care. The foster care allowance is currently €325 per week for a child under 12 years of age and €352 per week for a child aged 12 years and over. The allowance is not considered as means for social welfare purposes, and is not subject to tax. Enhanced and additional allowances can be paid in certain circumstances.

I amaware of concerns raised about the basic rates of the foster care allowance, which have not been increased since 2009. I am also aware of the disappointment among foster carers that provision was not made in Budget 2023 to increase the rates of the foster care allowance. It will be a priority of mine to secure an increase to the rates of the foster care allowance in future budgets.

In relation to the overall suite of supports for foster carers, I am also continuing to engage with Tusla in relation to travel costs and with the Minister for Social Protection in relation to eligibility of foster carers for the contributory State pension.