News 2017

The Irish Foster Care Association (IFCA) welcomes Minister Katherine Zappone’s statement that every young person leaving care will have a right to an aftercare plan from 1st September 2017

The Irish Foster Care Association (IFCA) welcomes the HIQA Regulation Overview Report published and particularly the review of children’s services that it conducted.

IFCA welcomes the HIQA inspection report on the Dublin Mid-Leinster – Dublin South Central area that highlights regional variance in practice in managing allegations within Tusla.

The Minister for Children and Youth Affairs announced that a full review of the child care act will take place to ensure that children in crisis are given supports, protections and a voice in their future and that every child in care proceedings will have the opportunity to avail of the support of a guardian ad litem – with a requirement on courts to give reasoning when an appointment is not made. A reform of Guardian ad litem service will also form part of the review to ensure the service is regulated with standard practices. Welcoming the announcement, Catherine Bond, CEO, Irish Foster Care Association commented “I am encouraged by today’s announcement by the Minister. This review is significant for both children in Ireland and all those working with children in Ireland. It is our wish in IFCA that every child in crisis has access to a Guardian ad litum and that the views and needs of the child are central to any decisions that impact on their family and their future. We look forward to working closely with the Department as the review gets underway to ensure the voice of all those involved in foster care in Ireland are heard.” Ends