I propose to take Questions Nos. 398 and 399 together.
In July 2022, a temporary Special Scheme was introduced in the public health sector to support eligible staff affected by Long Covid. This scheme was initially established for 12 months and, at the request of the Department of Health, was extended several times by this Department under the same terms for the existing group of supported employees. The scheme was scheduled to conclude on 30 June 2025.
Following a Labour Court hearing in June, the Court recommended a final extension of the Special Scheme until 31 December 2025, at which point anyone remaining on the scheme should transition to the Public Service Sick Leave Scheme.
This recommendation was accepted and sanction was given by my Department to extend the scheme until the end of the year in line with this Labour Court recommendation.
Any eligible public health sector employee remaining unwell beyond 31 December 2025, may utilise the full provisions of the Public Service Sick Leave Scheme which will provide further support. This includes full pay for three months, half pay for a further three months, temporary Rehabilitative Remuneration, which, if approved, can provide up to an additional 547 days of paid leave or the Critical Illness Protocol, subject to approval. Employees who were not eligible for the Special Scheme but are also affected by Long Covid may also access these supports through the sick leave scheme.
