Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 April 2024
1365. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health to respond to matters raised in correspondence (details supplied), particularly concerns regarding financial stability when the current scheme concludes on 31 March 2024; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14328/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThis Special Scheme in respect of Long Covid will conclude as planned on 31st March 2024.
Any employee remaining unwell after the Special Scheme concludes, may utilise the full provisions of the Public Service Sick Leave Scheme, and employees have received personal notification of this from their employer.
The supports available under the Public Service Sick Leave Scheme include:
Full pay sick leave for three months.
Followed by half pay sick leave for three months, and after that, Temporary Rehabilitative Remuneration, which if granted, provides up to a 547 days of paid sick leave.
The Critical Illness Protocol may also provide further supports if granted. It should be noted that my Department have specifically advised the health service that impacted staff may apply for CIP in respect of long Covid. Each application will be reviewed against the already existing criteria for CIP which is set out in the Public Service Sick Leave Scheme circular (attached for information).
