Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 September 2022
1655. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Health when the pandemic recognition payment will be paid to student nurses and midwives in University Hospital Galway, Merlin Park hospital and Portiuncula hospital Ballinasloe. [42552/22]
View answerFirstly, I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to all healthcare workers for their efforts during this most challenging period.
On January 19th, the Government announced a COVID-19 pandemic recognition payment for frontline public sector healthcare workers, to recognise their unique role during the pandemic. Following extensive engagement with healthcare unions on the matter, on 19th April the HSE published eligibility guidelines and FAQs, as apply to the HSE and Section 38 agencies, which are available on its website:
www.hse.ie/eng/staff/resources/hr-circulars/hr-circular-012-2022-pandemic-special-recognition-payment.html.
Payment is currently receiving priority across all Hospital Groups and Community Services in the HSE . The recognition payment will be made to those employed directly by the HSE or a Section 38 organisation and who fit the eligibility criteria set out at the above link. Eligibility includes having worked onsite in COVID-19 exposed healthcare environments for a minimum of 4 weeks between the 1st of March 2020 and 30th of June 2021. For those who meet all eligibility criteria set out, payments should be made as soon as possible.
