Vol. 478 No. 2
101 Mr. Cowen asked the Minister for Education the reason nursing students (details supplied) are being discriminated against in view of the fact that they are the only undergraduate students in the country being asked to pay college fees for nursing degree courses; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10869/97]
A revised programme for basic pre-registration nurse education and training was introduced in October 1994 on a pilot basis. The programme is operated by the Western Health Board and University College, Galway, at the University Hospital, Galway. It consists of a three year course which leads to a diploma in nursing studies and to registration with An Bord Altranais. The new programme has been extended to a number of other colleges of nursing in association with local higher education institutions. The programmes are being funded by the regional health boards.
In the current academic year, Dublin City University is operating a one year course which enables holders of the three year diploma obtain a degree of Bachelor of Nursing Studies. Access modules are available for registered nurses who qualified before the introduction of the diploma and who wish to pursue the one year course. The courses are provided on a part-time basis and are self-financing. The removal of undergraduate fees does not apply to part-time courses.
I understand from my colleague, the Minister for Health, that his Department is currently engaged in consultations with a number of third level institutions, including University College Galway, in relation to the development of accessible degree programmes which will be open both to nurses who successfully complete the new education and training programme and to nurses who qualify under the traditional model of education and training.
