I raise the issue of the Covid sick pay scheme that was in place for healthcare workers who, unfortunately, suffered from the serious consequences of long Covid. I met with these workers in my office recently. They are two nurses who have been out sick since they contracted long Covid. Unfortunately, it is not recognised as an occupational illness. I express my discomfort that this scheme is stopping. The individuals I have met who are suffering from this illness, especially those who worked in a healthcare setting, are extremely ill. They are very worried about the future of their families, their financial security and keeping their homes. They were only doing what was in fact their jobs. The State needs to do more to recognise that for some people, particularly the 120 healthcare workers who relied on this scheme to survive, this is a very serious healthcare problem that will now impact their family incomes as well. It is something the Government should consider extending for another period.

I thank the Deputy for raising the issue. I acknowledge a long-term Covid diagnosis and the existence of the Covid sick pay scheme is a very serious issue. I will talk to the Minister of Health on this matter. I will also raise with the Minister for public expenditure the fact that it has been raised and there have been discussions. I will see what the situation is and revert to the Deputy.