Sir, – Upon reading the article "Varadkar keen to avoid 'divisive' approach to bonus for frontline workers" (September 28th), my decision was reaffirmed.
While our Government falls over itself debating who, how and if to reward frontline staff, more of my non-consultant hospital doctor (NCHD) colleagues and I are actively leaving for jobs in Australia and other jurisdictions.
These are healthcare systems that not only pay better, but offer safe staffing levels and conditions. The canary in the coal mine has been dead for quite a while. – Yours, etc,
Dr STUART HENDRICKEN
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PHELAN, NCHD,
Tullow, Co Carlow.
Sir, – Someone needs to inform the Tánaiste that he is in government, not opposition.
Having done this, the Government then needs to stand up to the people who are calling for special treatment for frontline workers.
The majority of people calling for special recognition work for the State and enjoy a level of job security that is only a dream for many other citizens.
Can we presume that those working in the public sector received the overtime rate of pay for any extra hours worked?
If so, this should be sufficient remuneration. – Yours, etc,
MARGARET LEE AHANE
Newport, Co Tipperary.
Sir, – Speaking as a frontline worker, rather than a monetary bonus, invest in filtered air conditioning for public ward areas and improve conditions for staff and patients.
– Yours, etc,
ELAINE CLEAR,
Donnybrook, Dublin 4.
Sir, – I’m delighted to announce that I’ve already had my pandemic bonus. I’m still alive!
– Yours, etc,
PJ MALONEY,
Cloneyheigue,
Westmeath.
Sir,- Your editorial (September 30th) says it all. The idea of a frontline bonus has already turned into a race for inclusion as a hero in the battle against infection. There was only one frontline and that was staffed by doctors and nurses who risked life and limb in the battle to beat the common enemy.
The rest of us followed the instructions issued by senior medical experts via stunned political leaders. Outside of that, there were many who took on an acceptable level of risk to keep food on supermarket shelves. The level of risk for others, including the Garda and teachers was also well within acceptable limits given the age profile and the distancing measures already in place.
Let’s call a halt to this greedy nonsense before we all shoot ourselves in the foot.
– Yours, etc,
NIALL GINTY,
Killester, Dublin 5.