Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 25 Jul 1996

Vol. 468 No. 4

Written Answers. - Speech Therapists' Training Places.

Mary Wallace

Ceist:

535 Miss M. Wallace asked the Minister for Education if she will increase the number of places available for the training of speech and language therapists; and if she will increase the number of places for the training of physiotherapists. [15924/96]

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

The Higher Education Authority has the statutory function of maintaining a continuous review of the demand and need for higher education. Where there is a demand and recognised need for places, or courses, in the university sector, it is the normal procedure for consultation to take place between the Higher Education Authority and the relevant college authorities. The Higher Education Authority would in turn consult with appropriate bodies as necessary.

The four year primary degree course leading to a qualification as a speech therapist is provided in the school of clinical speech and language studies at Trinity College, Dublin. There are 26 places in the first year of the course and the intake is kept under review by the Higher Education Authority in the light of demand for speech therapists.

A four year course leading to a qualification as a physiotherapist is provided by both Trinity College, Dublin and University College, Dublin. The present annual intake is 30 in TCD and 32 in UCD. The position in regard to intake and demand for physiotherapists is under review by the HEA.