Emmet Stagg
Question:36 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Health and Children the action, if any, he is taking to deal with the severe shortage of social workers within the health services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18315/99]
Written Answers. - Social Workers.
I am aware that there is a shortage of social workers in the health service and a number of actions are being taken to address this.
I have arranged for the continuation of funding to the Higher Education Authority for extra student intake to social work courses in UCD and TCD. The extent of the shortage of social workers and the difficulty with recruitment and retention are being investigated as part of the remit of the expert group on paramedical grades, which includes social workers. The National Social Work Qualifications Board is currently carrying out a national survey of employers, which among other things is seeking to identify the extent and nature of any recruitment problems with social workers in the health service. The board will advise my Department of the results of this study. I will arrange for appropriate action to be taken in conjunction with the educational authorities when these investigations have been completed.