Sorca Clarke (Longford-Westmeath, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

When people clapped for front-line workers, including student nurses and midwives, that clap did not pay a bill, it did not pay for a crèche and it did not pay the rent. That public display of support must be reflected by the Government in meaningful pay and allowances. The payment for student nurses and midwives will be the litmus test of the Minister. The contribution they made and continue to make as we work our way through Covid must be acknowledged and reflected by the Government. It also tells us on whose side the Government is standing. While words matter, actions speak louder than any word ever will.

Earlier, I spoke with student nurses and midwives outside. What they told me was difficult to hear. They told me that they are tired, frustrated and exhausted and that they do not feel heard, valued or supported. More frighteningly, they told me they are thinking of leaving the country. Student nurses and midwives have been waiting for far too long for this recognition. We have tabled this motion to ensure the Government stops the vague promises and delivers for student nurses and midwives. We will need them when they are fully trained. We cannot have a haemorrhage of these valued workers out of the country. There can be no further delays and no further excuses. It is time to stop with the lip service and put in place what these workers need to ensure they will be assets in our health service in the future.

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