Tusla’s CEO is inviting foster carers all over the country to meet with her in a bid to strengthen support for them as the number of carers continues to decline. There are now around 5,000 foster carers in the country, as more incentives have been provided to support them including a rise in the fostering payments. 'Missing from foster care' casesBetween 2020 and September 2025, there were nearly 7,000 "missing from care" reports involving children in Tusla-run homes. In February 2025, 36 children were reported missing, 33 of whom were Separated Children Seeking International Protection. “Our last Strategic Plan for Foster Care was shaped by foster carers and resulted in many service improvements, including an increase in the Fostering Allowance, additional financial supports, new induction and training programmes for foster carers".

Source: Irish Examiner March 21, 2026 23:00 UTC