Holly Cairns (Cork South West, Social Democrats)
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1613. To ask the Minister for Health to ensure that the special leave with pay for healthcare workers with long-Covid will continue beyond 30 June 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17497/23]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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I am mindful that the temporary Special Scheme of Paid Leave in respect of long-Covid is due to conclude at the end of June and officials in my Department are actively engaging with key stakeholders in exploring what options are available in this regard.

The EU Advisory Committee on Health & Safety have recommended the recognition of Covid as an occupational illness in health and social care, however Member States vary in respect of their treatment of Covid in this regard.

I understand that Minister Humphreys has committed to reviewing the EU Committee recommendation regarding the occupational recognition of Covid in respect of the Department of Social Protection Benefits Schemes, and the list of prescribed diseases/illnesses set out in the Social Welfare Consolidation Act 2005. The outcome of this review is awaited.

Holly Cairns (Cork South West, Social Democrats)
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1614. To ask the Minister for Health his views on recognising long-Covid as an occupational illness for healthcare workers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17498/23]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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The EU Advisory Committee on Health and Safety have recommended the recognition of Covid as an occupational illness in health and social care, however Member States vary in respect of their treatment of Covid in this regard.

In Ireland, Special Leave with Pay is provided for the recommended isolation period, and those remaining unwell beyond that timeframe may utilise the provisions of the Public Service Sick Leave Scheme.

For certain employees who remained unfit to attend the workplace and are suffering from long-Covid, a temporary Scheme, specific to the public health service was introduced to provide for Paid Leave for Public Health Service Employees unfit for work post Covid infection. That Scheme is scheduled to conclude at the end of June this year.

I understand that Minister Humphreys has committed to reviewing the EU Committee recommendation regarding the occupational recognition of Covid in respect of the Department of Social Protection Benefits Schemes, and the list of prescribed diseases/illnesses set out in the Social Welfare Consolidation Act 2005. The outcome of this review is awaited.