To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what he is doing to address the differential impact of fuel cost increases on community-based healthcare workers, particularly those with high mileage.

As an interim measure, from 1 January 2008 I have increased by 3p per mile the mileage rate payable to Health and Social Care staff that are classified as regular users. My officials are also engaged in a four country review of the mileage rates which is currently being carried out in partnership with the nationally recognised health unions. This group is due to make recommendations shortly and I will consider these recommendations in due course.