Vol. 490 No. 7
163 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the only professional qualification available to mature students who seek recognition as professional social workers has closed down; and the plans, if any, he has to discuss with appropriate colleges the possibility of providing an alternative in this regard. [10994/98]
I presume the Deputy is referring to the qualification of Bachelor of Social Work at University College Cork. This course has not been discontinued but is being revised to comply with the requirements as laid down by the National Social Work Qualifications Board, which is the validating body for such course. The course is being revised from a three year to a four year programme and is due to recommence in October 1999.
