Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 January 2026
134. Deputy Joe Cooney asked the Minister for Health the estimated full cost to the Exchequer of the special leave with pay for health and social care workers unfit for work post-Covid-19, if it were to continue until all affected staff had retired; the number affected and timeline until retirement, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [69981/25]
View answerThe special scheme for long-COVID established in July 2022, for eligible public health sector staff formally concluded on 31 December 2025.
Approximately 159 employees remained on the scheme at the 31st December 2025, most of whom have received full pay for nearly five years.
While extended several times at the request of the Minister for Health, the Labour Court recommended a final extension in June 2025, which meant the scheme ran until 31 December 2025, when it formally concluded.
Importantly, this does not mean that supports ended. 104 staff who remained unfit to return to work when the scheme concluded moved seamlessly into the Public Service Sick Leave Scheme, ensuring continuity of care and financial protection.
The remainder have returned to work on a phased basis.
The Department of Health cannot provide costings as we do not hold employee records for staff in the HSE or S38. Retirement benefits are calculated on a case by case basis.
