Vol. 568 No. 5
271 Mr. Dennehy asked the Minister for Education and Science if the number of places made available for non-EU nationals on medical courses in universities is putting increased pressure on the points requirement for students here who wish to study medicine; if he will consider this in the context of his forthcoming review of medical staffing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16591/03]
There is no quota of places set aside for non-EU students in our medical schools. The level of non-EU places does not impact in any manner on the intake of Irish/EU students to undergraduate medical courses. This intake is the subject of a quota, which was introduced in 1980-81 following a report of the Higher Education Authority.
Discussions are currently taking place, between my Department and the Department of Health and Children in relation to undergraduate medical education and training in the context of the proposed review of medical staffing.
