Independent TD Denis Naughten has called for Long Covid to be designated as a "occupational illness for front line workers who contracted the illness during the course of their work".
Speaking in the Dáil during leaders questions, Deputy Naughten cited a study from Trinity College published in The Lancet which estimated that up to 11% of individuals who contracted Covid-19 in Ireland are likely to experience Long Covid, which could lead to a significant burden on the health care system.
He said it is an issue that is costing millions of euros in lost work.
"Figures from the Department of Social Protection show 0.8 % of those who contracted Covid-19 and claimed the enhanced illness benefit payment were medically certified as unfit to work 12 weeks later," he said.
"If this was extrapolated across the total number of people infected across the adult population, it equates to over 21,400 people."
Deputy Naughten called on the Government to put more support in place for those suffering with the aftereffects of Covid.
By designating Long Covid an occupational illness, he said this would allow "health care workers to avail of paid leave".
Replying, Tánaiste Micheál Martin said he made "a reasonable case".
"Significant progress has been made on the health side," he said, adding that the issue "will be looked at".
Meanwhile, the Minister for Health has expressed concern that some workers may not be getting the pandemic recognition payment to which they are entitled.
Stephen Donnelly was responding to Sinn Féin TD Pauline Tully, who said that a former employee of a nursing home suspects that her former employer has received the payment and failed to pass it on.
She said other workers have contacted her with concerns about whether they will receive the payment.
As the scheme only engages with employers, there is no way for employees to find out if a payment has been applied for or made, the deputy added.
"That is concerning to hear," Minister Donnelly said, as "the criteria are very clear".
"The HSE has engaged in good faith, and the Government has funded in good faith," he added.
He said those who are entitled to the payment deserve to know if their employer has applied for it, adding that he will take the issue back to his department and the HSE.
