We use Google Analytics to see which pages are read and how the site is used, so we know what to improve. This only runs if you accept. See our privacy notice for details.

Dáil
‹ An tOrd Gnó - Order of Business

Covid bonus for front-line workers

Summary

Deputy Barry calls for proper compensation for front-line workers through a Covid bonus, rather than a token gesture. The Taoiseach says Ministers McGrath and Donohoe are working on recognising front-line healthcare workers and will bring proposals back to Cabinet and the House.

Does the Taoiseach honestly believe that a measly once-off bank holiday and a few other crumbs from the table will satisfy the demand of front-line workers for a Covid bonus? These workers risked their lives and their health and suffered fatigue, stress and all types of mental health pressures to help to pull this society through the worst of the crisis. Workers in the public and private sectors alike deserve proper compensation. Does the Taoiseach accept that our society includes so-called high net worth individuals and some corporations that benefitted financially from the Covid-19 pandemic in a massively disproportionate way? Why would he not introduce a special one-off Covid wealth tax in the forthcoming budget and pay Covid bonuses from the revenues raised?

Comment on this

I thought the Deputy was against wealth taxes given that he votes against most of the taxes on wealth when they are introduced in the House. However, to be serious for a moment, the Ministers, Deputies Michael McGrath and Donohoe, are working on the recognition of front-line healthcare workers-----

Comment on this

There are too many in the economy.

Comment on this

-----and will come back to the Cabinet in respect of that issue, and then will bring it before the House.

Comment on this