Vol. 477 No. 2
93 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Minister for Health the status of the fourth year in university for nursing students; if it will commence at the beginning of the academic year 1997-8; the funding arrangements for the course; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8962/97]
Limerick East): I presume the Deputy is referring to the development of degree programmes for nurses in the context of the transition from the traditional model of nursing training and education to the registration-diploma programme. The duration of the registration-diploma programme is 156 weeks spread over three academic years. Successful completion of the programme leads to registration as a nurse with An Bord Altranais and the award of a diploma in nursing from the associated third level institute. Those who register with An Bord Altranais are eligible for employment.
After completion of the diploma programme, a one academic year programme leading to a degree in nursing will be available from third level institutes. The Department is currently engaged in consultations with a number of third level institutes in relation to the development of accessible degree programmes which will be open both to nurses who successfully complete the registration-diploma programme and to nurses who have qualified or will qualify under the traditional model of education and training. As the degree programme will be an optional post-registration qualification, registered nurses wishing to undertake the programme will be responsible for making their own arrangements and for meeting the associated costs.
