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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 12 Mar 1996

Vol. 462 No. 8

Written Answers. - Public Health Nursing Review.

Liz O'Donnell

Ceist:

91 Ms O'Donnell asked the Minister for Health if he will review the arrangements whereby public health nurses must use their own cars to provide essential public service including cover for weekends and bank holidays for no additional payment, with a view to improving these arrangements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5475/96]

Limerick East): The following rates apply to planned essential services undertaken by Public Health Nurses at weekends and public holidays:

£

Fixed Payment

13.87

First call out on Saturday and first call out on Sunday

18.41

Each subsequent call out on Saturday and Sunday

9.23

These allowances are revised in line with general round increases for nurses.
These rates apply nationally with the exception of the Dublin area of the Eastern Health Board where by agreement the method of compensation is time off in lieu in respect of planned essential services.
In addition to the above arrangements, all public health nurses are paid the standard motor mileage rates which apply throughout the health and local government areas.
Claims for improvement in these conditions must be processed through the industrial relations procedures. Under theProgramme for Competitiveness and Work negotiations are taking place at present between the unions representing nurses and management on a major claim for improvements in conditions of employment of nurses. In view of these ongoing negotiations it would be inappropriate for me to comment further at this time.
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