I propose to take Questions Nos. 617 and 622 together.
The salaries and allowances in the nature of pay of all directly-employed health service staff are subject to income tax. Details of the rates payable nationally are contained in the health sector consolidated salary scales issued by my Department. These are available on my Department's website — www.doh.ie.
The Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform is currently carrying out a review of allowances in the public service. This review is being undertaken following a Government decision requiring the public service to take additional measures to deliver further efficiencies in the public sector pay bill. The outcome of this process will be made known when it has been completed.