Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:143 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of college places available for nursing students; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20810/00]
Written Answers. - Nursing Staff.
I presume the Deputy is referring to the number of training places available on the nursing registration/diploma programmes operated by schools of nursing in association with linked third level institutions. Some 1,500 places were available on this year's programmes, which commenced on 2 October 2000, compared with 1,200 last year. This 25% increase in pre-registration training places is in response to the current shortage of nurses, and it is intended that 1,500 places will also be available in 2001 and 2002.
Bernard Allen
Ceist:144 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the fact that all elective gynaecology work at the National Maternity Hospital, Holles Street, Dublin 2, was cancelled for September and October due to the ongoing crisis over the shortage of midwives; and the steps he will take to deal with this very serious crisis in health staffing. [19462/00]
The Deputy will be aware that with effect from 1 March 2000, the Eastern Regional Health Authority assumed responsibility for all health service issues in the eastern region. I am advised by the ERHA that elective gynaecology work has been cancelled for the months of September and October at the National Maternity Hospital. I understand that this cancellation has resulted from a shortage of midwifes.
I am informed that the ERHA and the hospital have made considerable efforts recently to recruit staff both at home and abroad. In this regard the hospital has been successful in recent weeks in employing additional nursing staff from Australia and India. In addition, the hospital intends to retain a number of pupil midwives who are due to qualify in the coming weeks. I am advised that in light of these developments, the position in relation to gynaecology services will be reviewed with a view to resuming elective work in November. In the interim, the ERHA is examining the possibility of providing some gynaecology procedures at alternative hospital sites in the eastern region.