Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 September 2022
1895. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health if he will extend the pandemic special recognition payment to general practice nurses in view of their work looking after patients and running Covid vaccine clinics; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43824/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFirstly, I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to all healthcare workers for their efforts during this most challenging period.
The Government decision to provide a COVID-19 pandemic recognition payment for frontline public sector healthcare workers covers the following cohorts of staff:
1. HSE and Section 38 organisations;
2. Private Sector Nursing Homes and Hospices (e.g. Private, Voluntary, Section 39 etc.);
3. Eligible staff working on-site in Section 39 long-term residential care facilities for people with disabilities;
4. Agency roles working in the HSE;
5. Health Care Support Assistants (also known as home help / home care / home support) contracted to the HSE;
6. Members of the Defence Forces redeployed to work in frontline Covid-19 exposed environments in the HSE;
7. Paramedic staff employed by Dublin Fire Brigade to deliver services on behalf of the HSE.
The above 7 areas only are covered by this Government Decision and all eligible workers will be paid in accordance with the overarching eligibility criteria in place, which can be viewed here: www.hse.ie/eng/staff/resources/hr-circulars/hr-circular-012-2022-pandemic-special-recognition-payment.html.
The Government is mindful of other workers who played an important role during this difficult period in sustaining other services. It was very tough to draw a line on this matter. In recognition of the efforts of all workers, volunteers, and the general public during the COVID-19 pandemic, and in remembrance of people who lost their lives due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government announced a public holiday which took place on 18 March 2022. From February next year there will also be a new permanent public holiday established to mark Imbolc/St Brigid’s Day.
