Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 March 2024
1287. Deputy Richard O'Donoghue asked the Minister for Health if the case of healthcare workers suffering long Covid whose pay will cease on 31 March (details supplied) will be examined and discussed further; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11895/24]
View answerIn the public health sector, a temporary Special Scheme has been in place since July 2022 to provide special leave with pay for eligible staff in respect of Long Covid. Sanction to extend the Special Scheme has been granted a number of times by the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP and Reform (DPENDPR), however it will conclude as planned on 31st March 2024 and DPENDPR have been clear that no further extensions will be granted.
Any employee of the public health sector remaining unwell after that date, may utilise the full provisions of the Public Service Sick Leave Scheme which will provide further support.
The sick leave scheme provides full pay for three months, followed by half pay for three months, and after that, Temporary Rehabilitative Remuneration may be applied for, which, if granted, provides up to a further 547 days of paid leave. The Critical Illness Protocol that forms part of the sick leave scheme may also provide additional supports if granted.
Employees impacted by the conclusion of the Special Scheme will have received an individual notification of this from their employer.
