On 1 November 2010 I announced that the Government has decided to approve a voluntary early retirement scheme and a voluntary redundancy scheme for certain categories of staff in the public health service.
The purpose of the schemes is to achieve a permanent reduction in the numbers employed in the public health sector from 2011 onwards and to facilitate health service reform. The Government must strike a balance between incentivising people to leave now and the cost of any package. The Government is capping the total amount that will be paid out under the schemes at €400m in 2010. The terms agreed by the Government are fair and reasonable and I have made it clear that it is not my intention to change the terms of the schemes.
The HSE has put in place a dedicated website which includes a comprehensive Questions and Answers section and a ready reckoner to assist potential applicants.
In relation to the matter raised by the Deputy those on career break can apply on a without prejudice basis, however, applications will be dealt with if there is still capacity within the €400m to pay for them.