Pádraig Rice (Cork South-Central, Social Democrats)

The special long-Covid scheme for healthcare workers is due to end in two weeks' time creating huge financial uncertainty for healthcare workers still suffering from long Covid. These workers were exposed to Covid in healthcare settings at the height of the pandemic when many others were told to remain at home. Some of these got Covid before PPE and vaccines were in place. They made a huge sacrifice and we owe them a debt of gratitude but it seems like the State is going to turn its back on them. These workers should not be facing another financial cliff edge. At the bare minimum, there must be an extension of the special scheme for healthcare workers. It would be deeply unfair to force these workers onto a basic, time-restricted sick pay scheme. Ultimately, a permanent solution must be found. It is time for the Government to work with unions to develop an appropriate long-term occupational illness scheme for this small group of workers. In the meantime, the very least that is required is another extension of the current scheme before the end of the month. What is the Government going to do for these healthcare workers?

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