asked the Minister for Health if he is aware of difficulties at present being experienced by Irish nurses in connection with the recognition of courses which they have undergone in other EEC countries; the reason for such difficulties; the action he proposes to take in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Nurses' Courses Recognition.
830.
It is not clear what difficulties the Deputy has in mind. Only one level of nurse is recognised in this country, i.e. registered nurse. In most other EEC countries, there are two levels of nursing recognised. An Irish national cannot be given recognition in Ireland for a level of training lower than that equivalent to the training given here to registered nurses.
The EEC directives on general nursing provide for freedom of movement and lay down minimum standards of training for registered nurses. Assuming that other member states comply with the directives there should be no difficulty in an Irish national who qualifies in another member state being registered here on return. If the Deputy is aware of any particular problem, he might communicate with me and I will have the matter examined.