Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 14 February 2024
305. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Health if it is the case that a proposed agreement on pay parity for medical scientists with their clinical biochemist colleagues excludes retired medical scientists from the agreement; and if so, if he agrees that this would be very unfair on retired medical scientists; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6772/24]
View answerFirstly, I would like to acknowledge the dedication, professionalism, and commitment of all Medical Scientists throughout the country.
I am very conscious of the MLSA's long-standing claim for pay parity with Clinical Biochemists. Following productive talks at the Workplace Relations Commission back in May and June of 2022, agreement was reached to conduct an independent assessment of the role, responsibilities and pay of medical laboratory scientist grades. This assessment was undertaken by an independent assessor and the final report issued in January 2023.
Following the issuing of this report, my officials in the Department of Health, along with colleagues in the HSE and the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform, continued to engage with the MLSA on this matter.
There is provision in the new Public Service Agreement 2024-2026 for the implementation of pay parity from 1 January 2024 for existing Medical Scientists. However, it must be noted that the Agreement is not yet ratified. I understand that ICTU unions have begun the process of voting on the Agreement.
