I propose to take Questions Nos. 177, 237 and 243 together.
Nursing students on the pre-registration nursing diploma programmes are entitled to receive free meals on a seven day per week basis in designated health service institutions.
I have been informed by the Western Health Board that the manner in which the board continues to meet this requirement is currently the subject of discussions between the board and unions representing the nursing students concerned. The unions are currently considering proposals which were made by the board at a recent meeting. If these proposals are accepted, the Western Health Board will be in a position to fund their implementation from within its existing financial resources.