Martin Heydon
Question:59. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Minister for Health the steps being taken to address the delays in registration of nurses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7855/16]
View answerThursday, 21 April 2016
Questions (59)
Written answers
I wish to thank the Deputy for the matter raised. Given that this is an operational matter, it is appropriate that it should be dealt with by the NMBI. I have referred the Deputy's question to the NMBI for attention and direct reply. If you have not received a reply from the NMBI within 15 working days, please contact my Private Office and they will follow up the matter with them.
However, I would like to advise the Deputy of a number of measures taken by the NMBI and to put the perceived registration delays in context.
A significant volume of applications has been received by the NMBI, particularly during 2015. Many of the applications received to date are incomplete whereby documents remain outstanding on a file and therefore cannot be progressed to review/assessment stage until required documents are received. In addition, many applicants, unfortunately do not complete their application form fully therefore leading to delays in progressing an application through the system.
The NMBI have put a number of contact channels in place for applicants following up on the progress of their application. One such measure was introduced in October 2015 which was the opening of a dedicated call centre line for overseas applicants. This call centre is open Monday through to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. The call centre can provide regular updates to overseas applicants on the current status of their application. The NMBI has launched a new website during February 2016 which will have additional features for overseas applicants to include a facility to “Track their Application” on line.
The NMBI is working with its stakeholders, including HSE, to provide options for nurses who are required to obtain additional competencies in order to meet the requirements for registration. Such options include the adaptation course and an aptitude test.