The Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (DPER) introduced Special Leave with Pay (SLWP) re Covid for all Civil and Public sector employees at the start of the pandemic as a temporary measure to assist in the prevention of the onward spread of COVID-19 in the work premises.
DPER officials continue to keep SLWP re COVID-19 for public service employees under regular review, taking into account the evolving circumstances and Government and public health advice.
While SLWP re COVID-19 is currently available for self-isolation and where someone has been diagnosed with COVID-19, for certain time periods, public service employees may access the Public Service Sick Leave Scheme thereafter.
In respect of public health sector employees who have remained absent on SLWP in respect of Long Covid, there will be engagement by officials of my Department with DPER in advance of the cessation of Special Leave with Pay.