Cian O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay North, Social Democrats)
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139. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if she will extend the duration of the existing illness benefit for teachers for Covid-19 related illness or exempt Covid-19 related absences until a vaccine is in place; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29149/20]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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The general principles to apply to the management of COVID-19 includes the safety and welfare of employees and the minimisation of the impact of COVID-19 on teaching and learning. The current COVID-19 arrangements in place for teachers are outlined in my Department’s .

The Circular outlines that special leave with pay may be granted to teachers who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 or who are recommended to self-isolate. Paragraph 4.5 of Circular 0049/2020 states:

‘Special leave with pay granted by the employer will not be counted as part of the employee’s Sick Leave record.’

In addition, the Circular allows for a teacher who is on restricted movement or a very high risk of serious illness, from contracting COVID-19, to be facilitated with alternative working arrangements e.g. working from home.