Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 April 2024
1580. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Health the supports his Department will put in place for health workers who contracted long-Covid while carrying out their frontline services during the Covid-19 pandemic, who continue to be impacted by their condition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15189/24]
View answerIn the public health sector, a temporary Special Scheme was introduced in July 2022 to provide special leave with pay for eligible staff in respect of Long Covid. That Scheme concluded on 31st March 2024.
Any employee of the public health sector remaining unwell 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.
