Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 December 2023
573. Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice asked the Minister for Justice further to Parliamentary Question No. 341 of 10 October 2023, if she will confirm the number of staff suffering from long-Covid who have had their employment terminated by her Department in particular (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [55189/23]
View answerI am informed that no members of staff at my Department suffering with long-Covid have had their employment terminated.
I am further informed by the Irish Prison Service that no staff have had their employment terminated due to long Covid.
As the Deputy will be aware, Garda members and staff are employed by the Garda Commissioner, who is responsible for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána. My Department is not responsible for employing, or terminating the employment of Gardaí or Garda staff, as this is a strictly operational matter for Garda management, and my Department has no role.
As the Deputy will be aware, Circular 12/2023 sets out arrangements for the management of sick leave in the civil service. A range of supports and rehabilitative measures are in place to support and encourage officers in returning to the workplace following extended periods of illness. This Circular also applies to officers who are suffering or have suffered from long-Covid.
