Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 January 2026
1049. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Health if consideration will be given to extending the special leave with pay scheme and that some form of long-term support will be put in place for these workers, particularly given that approximately 166 employees of the HSE are affected by long-Covid since 2020 as a result of working on the frontline during the Covid-19 pandemic; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4350/26]
View answerAfter a hearing in June, the Labor Court recommended that the Special Scheme would come to an end on the 31st of December 2025, therefore, the scheme has formally concluded. Importantly, this does not mean that supports will end. Employees who remain unfit to return to work will move seamlessly into the Public Service Sick Leave Scheme, ensuring continuity of care and financial protection. The sick leave scheme provides full pay for three months, followed by half pay for three months, and after that, Temporary Rehabilitative Remuneration may be applied for, which, if granted, provides up to a further 547 days of paid leave. The Critical Illness Protocol that forms part of the sick leave scheme may also provide additional supports if granted. The HSE have been instructed to advise Managers to look favourably at requests for CIP.
