Joe Higgins (Dublin West, Socialist Party)
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580. To ask the Minister for Health in view of the fact that he has previously stated that the Health Service Executive has confirmed that student medical scientists on placement must be paid the monthly training allowance, the reason third-year biomedical science students in DIT have still not been paid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40483/13]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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The HSE has in the past confirmed to all health sector employers that Student Medical Scientists on placement must be paid the monthly training allowance as set out in my Department's consolidated salary scales.

This allowance was approved for continued award to new beneficiaries, following the review of public sector allowances conducted in 2012. The current rate payable is €813.58 per month.

The HSE memo dated 6 February 2013 reiterated in clear terms to hospitals that this allowance should be paid to all Student Medical Scientists on work placement.

As the payment of this allowance is a matter for the HSE in the first instance, the Deputy's enquiry has been referred to the Executive for direct reply.