Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 June 2023
1148. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Minister for Health what plans his Department has, and if it is working with the Department of Social Protection, to ensure the SLWP scheme continues for HCWs who contracted Covid in the workplace and are now suffering serious, long-term debility, such debility affecting their career, their financial, psychological and physical health; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27378/23]
View answerThe Department of Public Expenditure NDP Delivery and Reform Special leave with Pay for COVID-19 (SLWP) was introduced in lieu of sick leave for those with confirmed COVID-19 to assist in the prevention of the possible onward spread of COVID-19 in the work premises. This applies only to newly confirmed cases of COVID-19 recommended to stay at home as per current public health guidance (currently 5 days stay at home).
For certain employees who remain unfit to attend the workplace and are suffering from long-Covid, a temporary Scheme, specific to the public health service was introduced to provide for Paid Leave for Public Health Service Employees unfit for work post Covid infection. The temporary Scheme is due to conclude at the end of this month. At present, those who remain unwell beyond that date may utilise the provisions of the Public Service Sick Leave Scheme.
I am acutely aware of the issues experienced by public health sector employees in respect of this matter, and I am committed to providing support. I have asked officials to look at options in this regard.
The EU Advisory Committee on Health & Safety have recommended the recognition of Covid as an occupational illness in health and social care settings. I understand that Minister Humphreys has committed to reviewing the EU Committee recommendation regarding the occupational recognition of Covid in respect of the Department of Social Protection Benefits Schemes, and the list of prescribed diseases/illnesses set out in the Social Welfare Consolidation Act 2005. The outcome of this review is awaited.
