Health Services Staff

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 July 2023

Tuesday, 25 July 2023

Questions (1416)

Duncan Smith

Question:

1416. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Health the projected costs of settling the medical laboratory scientists' pay claim; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37103/23]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Health

Firstly, I would like to acknowledge the dedication, professionalism and commitment of all Medical Scientists throughout the country.

I am acutely aware of the MLSA's long-standing claim for pay parity with Clinical Biochemists. My officials in the Department of Health, along with colleagues in the HSE and the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform, have continued to engage with the MLSA on this matter under the auspices of the industrial relations machinery of the State. All parties are working hard to resolve this matter. 

I appreciate that the Deputy is seeking clarity on the cost of implementing the pay parity claim, however, as this is a live Industrial Relations matter, it would be inappropriate to comment any further at this point.