Child and Family Agency

Tuesday, 21 April 2026

Ceisteanna (702)

Claire Kerrane

Ceist:

702. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality further to Parliamentary Question No. 2562 14 April 2026, if one letter could issue to foster carers to cover such travel while a child is in their care, rather than having to seek a letter for travel to the North of Ireland every time, noting that foster carers living near the border do not require such a letter to travel north and those living further away do; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28549/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Children, Disability and Equality

I would like to thank the Deputy for raising this matter. It is important that each child in care have equitable treatment in matters concerning permission and documentation for travel, as you have outlined.

While Tusla makes every effort to provide a consistent service for children in care, some practices and procedures may vary between Tusla's areas/networks. Some children and young people may also require specific accommodation depending on the needs and best interests of each individual or family.

While Tusla is required by law to be independent in its work as set out in Section 8(11) of the Child and Family Agency Act, officials in the Department of Children will raise this issue in their ongoing engagements with Tusla, to seek clarity and to ensure that situations such as this are treated in a fair and consistent manner.