asked the Minister for Health if he will state the average annual amount paid by health authorities to a foster parent in respect of a boarded-out child for (a) maintenance and (b) clothing.

The average rate of maintenance allowance payable annually by health authorities to foster parents in respect of boarded-out children is £53. In addition to these maintenance allowances, health authorities pay school fees for boarded-out children who, on completion of their primary school education, continue their education in secondary or vocational schools. Health authorities also provide the full range of health services for boarded-out children, free of charge, where the foster parents wish to avail themselves of the services for the children.

The clothing allowances paid by health authorities in respect of boarded-out children are generally graduated according to the age of the child. The average rate of annual allowance for the older age groups is £15 12s. 6d. Some health authorities supplement the clothing allowances by special payments for First Communion and Confirmation outfits.

The determination of the rates of maintenance and clothing allowances is primarily a matter for the health authorities.