Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 February 2021
817. Deputy Peter Burke asked the Minister for Health if front-line health workers will be allowed a reimbursement of annual leave for days that have been used for childcare responsibilities during level 5 restrictions when schools have remained closed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9626/21]
View answerIn line with DPERs Guidance on HR matters during Covid-19 document which applies equally to all Civil and Public Sector employers and employees (https://www.gov.ie/en/news/092fff-update-on-working-arrangements-and-leave-associated-with-covid-19-fo/), where school closures are in effect across the country due to COVID-19 restrictions, childcare services, including childminders, and other existing childcare arrangements remain open and can continue for children of essential workers and vulnerable children including those employed in the health sector.
In addition, a household of an essential worker, without an existing childcare arrangement, can form a bubble with another household for the purpose of providing childcare.
Where these options are exhausted, employers and employees may, alternative arrangements for flexible working, including working from home and/or working adjusted hours, staggered hours, weekend work etc. should be utilized where possible.
There may be occasions where employees have chosen to utilise existing leave allowances including parental leave and annual leave, however there is no proposal to reimburse leave taken in these circumstances.
