Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Social Democrats)
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198. To ask the Minister for Health if he intends to extend the special scheme of paid leave for healthcare workers suffering from long Covid given that it is due to end on 30 June 2023; the timeline his Department is working towards in concluding its examination of options in that regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25094/23]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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I am keenly aware that the temporary Special Scheme of Paid Leave in respect of long-Covid 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, however I have asked officials to look at options 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.