Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 February 2026
1173. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Health if she is aware that a number of healthcare workers with long-Covid are facing significant hardship due to a loss of income due to the cessation of special Covid leave with full pay on 31 December 2025: the provision her Department will make for this cohort of healthcare workers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12339/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAfter 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 remained unfit to return to work will moved 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.
