Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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433. To ask the Minister for Health the reason the special Covid leave scheme will cease on 30 June 2023 despite the large number of healthcare staff on long-term leave due to long-Covid; if he will review this decision; the number availing of this scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20489/23]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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The Special Scheme of Paid Leave in respect of long-Covid introduced for a certain cohort of staff in the public health sector is a temporary Scheme, and as the Deputy has pointed out, is due to conclude at the end of June. At present, those who remain unwell beyond that date may utilise the provisions of the Public Service Sick Leave Scheme.

I am keenly aware of the impact of the Scheme concluding on employees, and I have asked officials in my Department to review options in this regard.

The HSE have advised me that there are approximately 120 employees currently on the special scheme of paid leave.