Vol. 501 No. 4
168 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science if he has consulted with the Higher Education Authority in relation to the need for additional college places for people who wish to study speech therapy; if a decision has been made in relation to this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6363/99]
My Department has consulted with the Higher Education Authority and the Department of Health and Children regarding the adequacy of the present provision for speech therapy training and the possible need for additional graduate output in this area.
The present provision for speech therapists involves a four year programme in the school of clinical speech and language studies at Trinity College Dublin. I understand that the Higher Education Authority has not been approached regarding any proposal to increase the output of speech therapists. However, I understand that the health service employers agency has established a number of expert groups to examine issues relating to the paramedic profession, which would include consideration of the adequacy of graduate output and training arrangements. These groups were established in 1997 and have not as yet reported.
