I wish to thank the deputy for the matter raised.
This question consists of three parts. In addressing part one of the question “Identification of routes to qualification as a midwife”, I wish to inform the Deputy that there are currently two routes available to become a midwife in Ireland. The first route is by way of a four-year undergraduate degree offered in six Higher Education Institutions across the country. The second route is for Registered General Nurses who may undertake an eighteen-month programme with six Higher Education Institutions.
I have arranged for the Higher Education Authority (HEA) to provide input in relation to the second part of the Deputy's question and I have arranged for the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI) to provide input in relation to the third part of the Deputy's question.
As soon as I receive the responses from the HEA and the NMBI, I will provide you with the information supplied by these organisations. It is expected that you should receive a reply within 15 working days.