Tusla To Remove 40 Year Age Gap Rule For Foster Parents – McGrath

Independent TD Mattie McGrath has welcomed the decision of Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, to remove any reference to a controversial 40 year age gap requirement between potential foster parents and any child they wish to receive into their care. Deputy McGrath was speaking after Minister for Children and Youth Affairs Katherine Zappone confirmed to him in a parliamentary reply that Tusla will seek full implementation of the new policy before the end of the year:

“This is a matter that has generated serious concern, particularly among grandparents, since I first highlighted the issue several months ago.

It is the kind of guideline that made absolutely no sense and was essentially discriminatory in character.

I am delighted that the Minister has kept her word to me about having this matter investigated.

Tusla is now engaging in a formal review of the Foster Care Committee Policy and guidelines and I am assured that the revised policy will remove all reference to the 40 year age.

This will come as a huge relief to many caregivers and relatives as well as those seeking to become foster parents to vulnerable children,” concluded Deputy McGrath.

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