Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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Significant funding of circa €35 billion has been provided for COVID expenditure since the onset of the pandemic. This funding has provided supports for society, business and the Public Service with the challenges of COVID. The Economic and Fiscal Outlook 2023 outlined the provision of COVID expenditure out to 2025. The use of this funding is considered as part of the relevant estimates process.

In terms of public servants specifically, it was decided at the onset of the pandemic that Special Leave with Pay should be used in lieu of sick leave for self-isolation or a diagnosis of COVID-19. Changes have been made to the arrangements over the course of the last three years in line with changes to public health, government guidance and the general return to the workplace. Special leave with pay currently applies for the duration of the HSE-recommended ‘stay at home period’ following a positive COVID-19 test result (whatever duration is in place at the time of the absence, currently five calendar days). These arrangements provide support to Public Service staff in addition to the provisions of the Public Service Sick Leave Scheme, which includes the areas of the public service referred to in the deputy’s question.

Under the Sick Leave Scheme staff can avail of the following payments during periods of absence from work due to illness or injury:

• A maximum of 92 days on full pay in a rolling one year period
• Followed by a maximum of 91 days on half pay in a rolling one year period
• Subject to a maximum of 183 days paid sick leave in a rolling four year period

There is also the potential for access to additional sick leave in certain circumstances as guided by the Critical Illness Protocol. It is important to note that equity is a fundamental principle of the Scheme, and illnesses are treated equally to ensure fairness for all.