Avril Doyle
Question:64 Mrs. Doyle asked the Minister for Health whether he has received submission requesting the introduction of improvements in the Nurses Act or the introduction of a new Act; and his intentions in this regard.
Written Answers - Nurses Act.
A comprehensive consultative process has been undertaken by my Department as a preliminary to reviewing the Nurses Act, 1985. A total of 41 submissions have been received from various representative, professional and other interested bodies and the many diverse views expressed on the direction and extent of legislative change required have been given careful consideration.
As the Deputy will be aware, An Bord Altranais is presently undertaking a review of all aspects of nurse training and education. This review will, I understand, be completed in the very near future. In view of the fact that any recommendations for change arising from this review may impact upon decisions concerning the legislative framework governing nurse training and education, it is my intention to await its completion before giving final consideration to proposals for legislative change.