Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 9 October 2024
161. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the cost of aligning section 39 staff if aligned with HSE pay scales; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40449/24]
View answerThe Government recognises the essential work carried out by staff in community and voluntary health and social care organisations, and the reliance of the State on their employer organisations to deliver essential supports and services to many citizens.
The sustainability of the sector is a concern for Government and we recognise the ability of these organisations to pay their staff is largely dependent on state funding.
It is important to note however that these organisations are not public bodies and their staff are not public servants. They are independently operated. Terms and conditions of employment, once in line with employment legislation, are strictly between the organisations and its employees.
The agreement reached last October at the WRC culminated in funding being provided for an 8% increase in pay for workers in organisations who provide services funded under Section 39, 56, 10 or 40 of relevant Acts.
The Department has secure an additional €14.2m in funding to meet the additional costs of implementing the terms of the October 2023 WRC Agreement. This increase is in addition to the estimated €41m already provided in 2024. This funding is currently being administered to eligiable organisations by the HSE.
In line with the October Agreement, relevant Departments, agencies, employer representatives and unions reconvened for preliminary talks at the WRC on 14 May. Substantive talks resumed at the WRC on 24 June, 22 July, 26 July, 02 August, 30 August and most recently 06 September.
The complexity of funding and employment arrangements in the sector must be factored into the scope of any Agreement. It is only possible for Departments to agree an increased level of funding when it is linked directly to the relevant statutory funding streams.
DCEDIY is committed to achieving a positive and meaningful outcome to the current WRC talks process, one that improves the pay of staff and enhances the ability of these vital organisations to actively recruit and retain staff.
