Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 January 2026
1900. Deputy Aisling Dempsey asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality if all formal kinship carers are paid the same allowances as foster carers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [74315/25]
View answerFoster carers play a vital and valued role in the care of the most vulnerable children in our society. Foster care is the preferred option for children who cannot live with their family of origin, and foster carers provide a safe, secure and stable home environment for these vulnerable children and young people.
This Department has overseen record investment in foster carers, including a 21% increase to the foster care allowance over the past two years, resulting in the current weekly allowance for children in foster care of €400 per week for children aged under 12, and €425 per week for those over 12.
I can confirm that both general foster carers and relative foster carers are paid the same rates of the foster carer allowance when a child is placed with them by Tusla.
