Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh (Kildare South, Sinn Fein)
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298. To ask the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality if she will advocate for an increase in the fostering allowance in line with the cost of living for budget 2026; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38336/25]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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Foster carers play a vital role providing stable and caring homes for our most vulnerable children. Foster care is recognised as the preferred care setting for a child in the care of the State. As of Q4 2024, 87.2% of children in care were being cared for by foster carers, a figure which compares favourably internationally.

However, it is recognised that the State faces an ongoing challenge in maintaining a sufficient number of foster carers, in light of the growing demand for Tusla services, and the increasing complexity of many of the cases presenting to Tusla.

My Department has overseen record investment in foster carers, including a 21% increase to the foster care allowance in Budget 2024, resulting in a weekly allowance for foster carers of €400 per week for children aged under 12, and €425 per week for those over 12.

Additionally, in 2025 foster carers will receive a bonus payment at the start of each initial foster care placement. This payment aims to alleviate the substantial out-of-pocket expenses that can be incurred by foster carers during the initial period after a child is placed in their care.

In addition, a new pilot peer support model has been introduced to assist new foster carers, allowing for direct support, guidance and advice from more experienced foster carers.

A revised Mileage Payment Scheme for foster carers also came into effect in April 2025. This broadens the categories of journeys which may be considered eligible for payment under the Foster Care Travel Payments Scheme. Additionally, the cumulative weekly travel distance to qualify for these payments has been reduced from 300km to 250km.

The current Programme for Government commits this Government to increase the Foster Care Allowance and to ensure increases in the new Initial Placement Payment. I will work closely with colleagues in Government to ensure that foster carers remain a priority in future Budget considerations.