I wish to assure the Deputy that I am very much aware of the need to ensure that the health services have timely access to the recruitment of health professionals and the efficient registration of new graduates and those seeking recognition of qualifications acquired outside the State.
In accordance with EU and national law, applications for recognition of qualifications acquired outside the State must be completed within four months.
Driven by a number of factors including the improved economic climate and the increasing number of professional registers, the volume of applicants seeking recognition has more than doubled since 2015. In response CORU has allocated additional resources, including additional staff, to ensure that the timelines stipulated by law are met. CORU endeavours to process applications as quickly as possible, however the overarching objective is patient safety and CORU must ensure that each applicant fulfils all of the criteria required for registration.
In line with CORU’s strategic objectives and an ongoing programme of improvement, an online system for making applications is currently being tested and finalised. The new system will provide a platform for the receipt and processing of applications, removing the requirement for paper submissions. It is envisaged that this system will be operational in the coming months and will greatly assist both the applicant and CORU in the processing of applications for recognition of qualifications.