Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 June 2026
850. Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh asked the Minister for Health if a service impact assessment was carried out before the historic pay linkage between perfusionists and medical scientists was altered; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [44972/26]
View answerThe Deputy refers to the historic pay linkage between perfusionists and medical scientists. Pay and grading matters relating to health service staff are addressed through established industrial relations mechanisms and engagement between the HSE, the Department of Health and staff representative bodies.
The Department of Health and the HSE accept in full the Labour Court recommendation regarding the pay claim by perfusionists and are supportive of implementing the proposed pay adjustment as soon as possible. The remaining issue concerns the mechanism through which the claim can be progressed and funded in accordance with the provisions of the current Public Service Agreement.
I am advised that significant funding has been made available under the local bargaining process to address claims of this nature. The annual cost associated with this claim is relatively modest and the HSE and the Department remain committed to working with all parties to secure an appropriate resolution as quickly as possible.
The HSE continues to monitor the impact of workforce arrangements on recruitment, retention and service delivery, and the need to ensure the continued provision of safe, high-quality cardiac services.
