Covid-19 Pandemic

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 November 2020

Tuesday, 3 November 2020

Questions (1363)

Gerald Nash

Question:

1363. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Health his views on the fact that the agency contract signed between the HSE and a company (details supplied) in relation to the terms and conditions of level 2 Covid-19 contact tracers and the individual contracts and terms and conditions of employment makes it clear that those that have been hired to undertake this critical job do not enjoy the same sick pay terms as level 1 tracers that are in the direct employment of the HSE; his further views on whether the lack of full sick pay cover could potentially see such agency workers placing themselves at risk and in a compromised position in the workplace; if he and the HSE will address this deficit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33365/20]

Written answers

Minister for Health

Health services are provided either by directly-employed HSE staff or by voluntary and private providers who have formal tender arrangements with the HSE to deliver the services.

Due to the strain on existing HSE HR resources to meet the COVID- 19 challenge, the HSE are being supported by an employment agency in increasing the available workforce for a short-term period during the Covid-19 pandemic as required.

I cannot directly comment on arrangements between the HSE and external providers of health services, however I have asked the HSE to respond to the Deputy on this matter.