John Dennehy
Question:305 Mr. Dennehy asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will provide an update on plans for the development of a new school of physiotherapy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28688/01]
Written Answers. - Physiotherapy Services.
It is a priority that sufficient numbers of physiotherapists are employed in the public health service to ensure that all persons requiring treatment receive treatment within a reasonable timeframe. In response to my concern regarding the current severe labour shortages affecting the therapy professions and the delivery of therapy services nationwide, my Department commissioned a report from Dr. Peter Bacon and Associates on current and future supply and demand conditions in the labour market for speech and language therapists, occupational therapists and physiotherapists. The study, a comprehensive quantitative assessment of workforce requirement for qualified personnel in these areas to 2015, was published on 25 July last.
The report concludes that a major expansion in the numbers of therapy professionals is essential over the next 15 years, including a doubling in the number of physiotherapists. This will require a significant increase in training places with a recommended annual increase of 25 course places for physiotherapy. I am working closely with my colleague, the Minister for Education and Science, Deputy Woods, to ensure the rapid provision of the additional places as an urgent priority. To this end an interagency working group has been established comprising representatives of my Department, the Department of Education and Science and the Higher Education Authority, HEA. The Higher Education Authority has initiated a formal bidding process between third level educational institutions to respond quickly to the training needs identified in the study.