asked the Minister for Health if he will establish a single central bureau through which girls who wish to enter the nursing profession must apply for positions in the various nursing schools and to which the nursing schools must notify their vacancies and the standards required of prospective candidates.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Nursing Profession.
24.
I am aware of the problem which has prompted the Deputy's question. I discussed the matter, in an informal way, with the newly appointed members of An Bord Altranais when I met them at their inaugural meeting on Thursday last the 14th February. I propose to ask An Bord Altranais to examine the feasibility of establishing a central bureau on the lines set out in the question.
Could I ask the Minister whether or not in his discussions with the members of An Bord Altranais he asked them to have a look at the conditions obtaining whereby the suitability of a lady for the nursing profession depends on her ability to pay a substantial fee?
I did not raise that.
Would the Minister think he might do so in the interests of those young girls who might not have the fee?
An Bord Altranais are an excellent body and I think they would have regard to the matter which the Deputy has raised, but in any case, I will take it up with them as well.
I was wondering did the Minister ask them, if it comes within the terms of reference of that board's statutory powers to do this?
I am not perfectly clear whether or not it is within their statutory powers but, as I said in the reply, I had an informal chat with them and, whilst they may have no function—I do not know—they promised they would consider it, and if there is a recommendation to whoever is to set up this bureau, it will be sympathetically considered.
The Minister will agree that there is an urgent need for this to be introduced soon?
I think it was the Deputy who brought it to my notice about nine months ago.
Could the Minister say what standards are required for girls who want to enter the nursing profession?
This is a separate question.
I have not got that information here, but I am informed that they need their leaving certificate.
No. 25.
Surely in this day and age there is a little more than the leaving certificate entering into consideration about this? Is there any aptitude test?
Yes, they are interviewed. I was informed by one of the board who happened to be a matron of a hospital that she interviewed every single person; it was not a question of breaking it down to a short list. Every single applicant was interviewed.
No. 25.
A Cheann Comhairle——
The Chair is calling the next question.
Just one final supplementary.
No. 25. The Chair must be obeyed. I have given the Deputy a lot of latitude and it is not relevant to the question at all.
It is in the second part of the question.