I am advised by the Director General of the Irish Prison Service that Circulars 1/82 and 6/97 on sick leave arising from occupational injury or disease are the governing circulars in this matter.
The Irish Prison Service Proposal for Organisational Change deals with pay related matters concerning the payment of additional hours and allowances in respect of sick leave arising from occupational injury or disease.
The Chief Medical Officer's advice is sought on all applications to have an absence recorded under these circulars.
The process in place regarding occupational injuries and the pay involvement has been followed in the case of the person concerned.
There is support available for employees through the Employee Assistance Programme. The principal providers of the Employee Assistance Programme services are the Staff Support Officers at a local level. Their role is to support and advise staff with difficulties arising inside or outside the workplace which may have an impact on their ability to provide regular effective service. Inspire Workplaces are a confidential phone support service which is made available to all Irish Prison Service employees.