AQW 7855/22-27 Written question to the Minister of Health
To ask the Minister of Health whether he will conduct a pay review for interpreters employed by Health and Social Care NI.
Asked by Connie Egan MLA on 29 February 2024
- Answered
- Written
- After due date
- Tabled
- 29 February 2024
- Answer due by
- 15 March 2024
- Answered
- 27 March 202427 days after tabling
- Department
- Department of Health
- Priority question
- No
Answer
Face-to-face spoken language interpreters are independent self-employed contractors who are not employed by the Health and Social Care (HSC) service but are paid for their service through the Business Services Organisation (BSO) at an agreed rate.
HSC Interpreters must be registered with BSO and adhere to the HSC Terms of Engagement. This stipulates an hourly rate of pay as well as a preparation payment.
The Department is aware that pay has not increased for a number of years and the impact this is having on the valuable service that interpreters provide. You will however be aware of the significant financial constraints within the wider Health Service. There have been a number of correspondences to my office regarding this issue and as such I have asked the Strategic Planning and Performance Group to review this matter.
I will endeavour to do the best I can to come to a suitable resolution.