Michael Ring
Question:275 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children if a psychiatric nurse can proceed directly into a midwifery course; and, if not, if a general nursing course must be completed first. [22929/01]
Written Answers. - Nursing Education.
A registered general nursing qualification is a requirement for entry to a midwifery education and training programme. This is stipulated by An Bord Altranais the regulatory body for
nurses, including midwives, in Ireland and by the European Directive No. 80/154 EEC and No. 80/155EEC.
An exception exists in relation to direct entry courses which are not generally available in Ireland. One pilot direct entry project started in June 2000 involving Trinity College and two maternity hospitals, the Rotunda Hospital, Dublin and Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda, County Louth. The direct entry programme requires applicants under 23 years of age to have the normal requirements for school leavers for entry to Trinity College, Dublin. Those over 23 years of age may apply as mature applicants.