Vol. 470 No. 3
77 Ms O'Donnell asked the Minister for Health the plans, if any, he has to effect changes in the Nursing Board, possibly involving decreasing nursing representation on this board; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18898/96]
Limerick East): The Deputy will be aware that a review of the Nurses Act, 1985, which gives An Bord Altranais its statutory basis, is currently under way. Submissions on the review of the Act were sought by the Department from interested parties. The submissions which were received recommended a number of changes to the 1985 Act and these are being considered in the context of the review. I am keenly aware of the issues relating to the representation of nurses on An Bord Altranais.
The review of the Act is now nearing completion and in finalising proposals for amendment, there will be an opportunity for further consultation with representatives of the profession on the question of representation and any other issues which may be of concern to them.
