Health Services Staff Training

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 December 2016

Tuesday, 13 December 2016

Questions (521)

Éamon Ó Cuív

Question:

521. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Health the details of his discussions with the Minister for Education and Skills to ensure that the shortage of persons with Quality and Qualifications Ireland, QQI, level 5 qualifications in health care support is overcome in view of the shortage of care assistants available to public and private home care and other health care providers; the results of such discussion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40080/16]

Written answers

Minister for Health

In November 2016, a working group, with an independent chair, was established by the HSE to conduct a comprehensive review of the role and function of the Health Care Assistant in the health service. It is expected that the work of the group will include a consideration of the educational qualification requirements for the role. The group will engage, as appropriate, with relevant bodies during the course of its work.