Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 June 2023
1251. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Health if consideration will be given to altering the salary pay scale of radiation therapists, details supplied; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28222/23]
View answerFirstly, I would like to acknowledge the incredibly important role of Radiation Therapists in the provision of cancer services in this country.
A Radiation Therapist review commenced in December 2022 and is currently under way. This strategic review will consider issues such as organisation structure, career development in line with Health and Social Care Professional Frameworks, strategic workforce planning and recruitment and retention strategies.
Radiation Therapists are highly skilled professionals regulated by CORU. The Radiation Therapist review will support the objectives of the National Cancer Strategy 2017-2026 and help address the increasing and more complex demand for radiation oncology. Cancer cases are increasing in line with our ageing and growing population, and the NCCP estimates that up to 60% of patients will require radiation oncology for primary treatment and palliative care in coming years.
All outcomes of the review will be given due consideration by the Department of Health. Implementation of any recommendations from the review are subject to approval from the Departments of Health and Public Expenditure and Reform in line with public service pay policy.
As part of Building Momentum – Public Service Agreement 2021-2022, Radiation Therapist grade received 3.73% pay increase effective from 1st February 2022. This grade also further received all general round adjustments applied since that date.
Please be advised that the HSE is focused on making all posts as attractive as possible. In the past number of years it has been developing its ability to attract and retain essential talent to meet the needs of our health service now and in the future.
