William Aird (Laois, Fine Gael)
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881. To ask the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality whether foster carers allowance can be used to qualify persons for a State pension (contributory); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [61520/25]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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The Foster Care Allowance is a weekly allowance paid directly to foster carers, which is a payment in respect of the child in their care. The foster care allowance is currently €400 per week for a child under 12 years of age and €425 per week for a child aged 12 years and over. The allowance is not subject to tax, and does not incur PRSI contributions which would be necessary for eligibility for the State Pension (Contributory).

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.