Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 30 June 2022
254. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if it is proposed to increase places for students wishing to pursue healthcare courses in different therapy disciplines in universities for the upcoming academic year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35191/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department is strongly committed to supporting the health of the population through the provision of graduates with the key competencies and skills to be effective in the health workforce, and support a range of clinical teams in our health services.
I recently announced an additional 1,056 college places for the upcoming academic year, which includes healthcare and welfare courses. These additional places will be a permanent addition to the system.
Officials in my Department will continue to engage with the Higher Education Authority and representatives from the higher education sector on expanding third level provision in targeted programmes, with a focus on areas such as healthcare, where there is a need for more skilled graduates. However there are real, material limits on the immediate increases that can be accommodated on highly practical courses such as healthcare courses which involve clinical placements.
The Programme for Government commits the Department of Health to working with the education sectors, regulators, and professional bodies to improve the availability of health professionals and reform their training to support integrated care across the entire health service. I will ensure that there is continued engagement with all stakeholders to ensure that we deliver graduates with the skills necessary to support our healthcare system and support the strategic workforce planning by the health sector.
