Vol. 540 No. 3
190 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will amend a circular to include those studying orthopaedic nursing in view of the concerns of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20865/01]
On 29 November 2000, I announced an initiative making funding available for certain nursing courses in specified specialised areas of clinical practice to address the critical shortage of nurses in those areas. I have now approved the extension of this initiative to include all higher diploma and certificate courses in specialised areas of clinical practice, including orthopaedic nursing, as and from the current academic year. Nurses and midwives who are currently undertaking such courses and who have already paid fees will have the fees refunded, subject to their giving a commitment in writing to continue working in the specialised area concerned for a period of 12 months following completion of the course.
