Phil Hogan
Ceist:120 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Health and Children if funding for the nursing degree has been resolved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21759/97]
Written Answers. - Nursing Degree.
I would draw the Deputy's attention to my replies of 12 November 1997 and 19 November 1997 to previous questions relating to this matter.
Successful completion by a student nurse of the three year registration-diploma programme leads to registration as a nurse with An Bord Altranais, at which point he or she will become eligible for employment. As a degree in nursing is not a requirement for registration as a nurse and subsequent employment, such a qualification would be an optional post-registration qualification. Members of the nursing profession wishing to undertake a nursing degree programme would, therefore, be responsible for making their own arrangements, including the payment of course fees.