Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

1599. To ask the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality if consideration will be given to introducing a formal pension entitlement or long-term social protection provision for foster carers, recognising their years of dedicated service in providing full-time care and support to children in State care; if her Department has undertaken any review or consultation regarding the financial and social security challenges faced by foster carers upon retirement; if she will engage with the Minister for Social Protection to explore mechanisms for pension credits or contributory entitlements to reflect the nature and duration of foster care work; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [59830/25]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am aware that eligibility for the State Pension (Contributory) is an area of genuine concern for foster carers.

As the Deputy may be aware, the Programme for Government 2025 contains a commitment to develop a pension solution for foster carers in recognition of the enormous contribution they make to vulnerable children in our society, and to acknowledge their long-term commitment and to ensure that they are supported and valued after their fostering years.

Eligibility for the State Pension (Contributory) is a matter which falls under the remit of my colleague, the Minister for Social Protection. The Department of Social Protection has in place a number of schemes for family carers that may already be of benefit to foster carers where they meet the criteria, in the same way as any parent.

In addition, the Government has committed to the development of a national plan on alternative care to include a short-term action plan addressing current issues in accessing appropriate care places, and a longer-term vision for how the care system will operate into the future. In delivering on this commitment, the Department has commenced the development of a National Policy Framework for Alternative Care. This Framework will articulate the collective vision and responsibilities of the State to children and their families in the alternative care system. Development of the Framework will be informed by evidence and robust consultation with stakeholders, including foster carers and their representative bodies.

I also look forwarding to working closely with Minister Calleary and Government colleagues to progress effort to improve pension provision for foster carers and the related Programme for Government commitment.