Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 June 2026
596. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the measures that can be put in place, including some form of auto enrolment, to provide for pensions for foster carers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [46867/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFoster carers play a vital role in enabling our most vulnerable children to live in a safe, secure and stable home environment. While eligibility for the State Pension is a matter which falls under the remit of my colleague, the Minister for Social Protection, I understand that this matter is an area of genuine concern for foster carers.
The Programme for Government 2025 introduced a number of commitments relating to foster care. This included commitments to examine and develop a pension solution for foster carers, in recognition of the enormous contribution they make to vulnerable children in our society.
I can confirm for the Deputy that work is underway within the Department on the development of a National Policy Framework for Alternative Care, which will deliver on a separate Programme for Government commitment to develop a national plan on alternative care. Officials of the Department are developing this Framework on the basis of evidence and robust consultation with stakeholders, care experienced individuals, and the public.
Officials in the Department and I will continue to listen carefully to what they foster carers have to say, including in relation to eligibility for the State pension and other key matters. I have raised this issue with the Minister for Social Protection and there will be subsequent engagement between the relevant Department officials on the subject of a pension solution for foster carers. I will continue to work closely with Minister Calleary and my Government colleagues regarding the progression of these Programme for Government Commitments.
