Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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In respect of plantar fasciitis, it is important to note that common causes of the condition include

• exercising on hard surfaces
• exercising with a tight calf or heel
• overstretching the sole of your foot during exercise
• doing a lot more walking, running or standing up than usual
• wearing shoes with poor cushioning or support
• being very overweight

While many grades of staff in the public health sector who, due to the nature of their role, may spend substantial parts of their working day on their feet, it is important to note that employees from very many sectors, both public and private, performing a multitude of roles, may also spend substantial parts of their working day on their feet.

Noting that the common causes set out above (taken from the HSE's website at www2.hse.ie/conditions/plantar-fasciitis/) are many in nature and are not specifically linked to the delivery of any role in the workplace, it is not proposed to introduce any special provisions for staff of the health service who may suffer from plantar fasciitis.