Noel Ahern (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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Question 115: To ask the Minister for Finance the sickness arrangements in the public service; and if the practice (details supplied) is standard. [18805/10]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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I refer to the position regarding the sick leave policy in the civil service, for which I have responsibility.

The decision whether sick leave is to be granted to an officer and whether it is to be with or without pay is a matter for the Head of the Department. The production of a medical certificate does not in itself entitle the officer to sick leave.

Full pay during properly certified sick absence, provided there is no evidence of permanent disability for service, may be allowed up to a maximum of six months in one year and half pay thereafter, subject to a maximum of twelve months' sick leave in any period of four years. Sick leave with pay at pension rate may be granted to an officer where the sick leave with pay allowable under the ordinary regulations has been exhausted. The payment of pension rate of pay is subject to the condition of a reasonable prospect of a resumption of duty, with an ability to render regular and effective service.