Unions representing workers in the health service have welcomed a commitment from Government to review the supports for healthcare workers impacted by Long Covid.  

Approximately 150 healthcare workers who caught Covid at work early in the pandemic had been availing of a Special Leave Scheme until last year, when it was discontinued.  

On Wednesday 30th April, a union delegation including representatives of Fórsa, the INMO, SIPTU and the IMO, met with an Taoiseach Micheál Martin T.D.  

In the discussions the Taoiseach confirmed that he has directed the HSE to “use discretion” in relation to the application of the HSE Critical Illness Protocol. This will provide three months of pay to workers, during which period a solution will be sought. The Taoiseach also made a commitment that real engagement should take place in that timeframe. 

The group of unions reported that the meeting was positive, and that they “welcome the commitment to reviewing the application of the Critical Illness Protocol to allow further engagement on the substantive issue.” 

Head of the Health and Welfare division Ashley Connolly said: “This group of workers cannot be forgotten. They continue to live with the consequences of an illness they contracted while doing their jobs, leading many to suffer long term health and financial consequences.” 

“Our meeting with the Taoiseach was positive, however it’s vital that the HSE and the Department of Health are aligned, so that we can make progress on this issue.” 

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