Ms Anne Marie Hoey:

The issue of childcare for healthcare workers posed some challenges. The HSE engaged cross-sectorally with Government Departments on supports for healthcare workers. Several options, as we know, were explored. True to public health advice and so on, it was not possible to reach an early resolution. The crèche facilities have now reopened. However, the HSE was as flexible and creative as it could be in facilitating staff to be able to work different shifts, rosters and days. We have a 24-7 service to run so there are many opportunities for us to provide flexible working arrangements for staff to enable them to balance caring responsibilities with the working environment.