Réada Cronin (Kildare North, Sinn Fein)
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169. To ask the Minister for Health if her Department will consider an extension to the special leave with pay scheme for healthcare workers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2692/26]

Jennifer Carroll MacNeill (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)
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After a hearing in June, the Labor Court recommended that the Special Scheme would come to an end on the 31st of December 2025, therefore, the scheme has formally concluded. Importantly, this does not mean that supports will end. Employees who remain unfit to return to work will move seamlessly into the Public Service Sick Leave Scheme, ensuring continuity of care and financial protection. The sick leave scheme provides full pay for three months, followed by half pay for three months, and after that, Temporary Rehabilitative Remuneration may be applied for, which, if granted, provides up to a further 547 days of paid leave. The Critical Illness Protocol that forms part of the sick leave scheme may also provide additional supports if granted.