Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 September 2020
823. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Question No. 1150 of 30 July 2020, the status of the compensation scheme for the families of the frontline healthcare workers that died as a result of contracting Covid-19 in the workplace; when he expects to bring it to Cabinet; when he expects to formally announce the scheme; and when he expects the scheme to commence delivery. [25431/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraWork is continuing in my Department to develop a compensation scheme for the families of frontline healthcare workers who have died due to COVID-19 that was contracted in the workplace.
I am not in a position to provide detailed information in respect of the scheme at this time, however I do wish to confirm that it is my intention for the scheme to include everybody who is a front-line worker in the health services, i.e. those who provide direct care as well as those who provide other services through their work in health or care settings where the virus is present, both public and private.
Other features of the scheme as proposed are that it will:
- provide for a lump sum payment,
- apply retrospectively, and
- be in addition to any other death in service benefits that may already be in place.
Being given particular consideration is the most suitable way to implement the scheme in order that it can be brought into operation as soon as possible.
When the proposals in respect of the scheme have been progressed to an appropriate stage I will be bringing them to cabinet for discussion. Details of the scheme will be made available once it has been approved by Government.
