Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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1078.To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the position in relation to funding for prison officers’ medical aid; if it is necessary for an organisation (details supplied) to apply for funding each year; if she is planning any steps to ensure that prison officers are treated equitably with members of other uniformed services on the issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter.[34275/24]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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I have been advised that senior officials in the Irish Prison Service have met with the organisation referred to by the Deputy on a number of occasions over the last twelve months. The meetings were to facilitate discussions regarding issues experienced by the organisation with their funding model and the significant challenges they are facing due to the exponential increase in medical costs.

I understand the services provided are similar in nature to those provided to comparable organisations, such as, An Garda Síochána through the St Paul’s Medical Scheme.

An annual contribution by way of financial support was made available to the organisation in 2024 and consideration is being given to the level of financial support for 2025, subject to the availability of resources. It is envisaged that a contribution will be made annually for the foreseeable future.