asked the Minister for Health if he is aware of the increasing demands for chiropody in this country; if there are any training facilities here for this profession; if not, if facilities will be provided for such training; or if he will otherwise provide grants for training in England where most of our chiropodists qualify.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Training of Chiropodists.
86.
I have no specific evidence of the trend in the demand for chiropody services provided under private arrangements. In so far as health authorities are concerned, they have in recent years been extending their chiropody services, particularly for aged persons in hospitals and county homes.
There are no recognised training facilities for chiropodists in Ireland and I am not aware that the professional organisations are making arrangements for such training facilities.
I have recently received representations seeking financial assistance for persons to train as chiropodists in England.
My Department is at present examining the many implications of this proposal.