Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Yes, hopefully through the WRC and then, if necessary, through the Labour Court, we can find a resolution to this that works for everybody. Deputy Naughten made a very salient point in yesterday's debate when he said that we need to respect, grow and develop this workforce because as science and technology become more advanced and linked into care through genetics and so forth, and as we move towards personalised medicine which is opening up incredible opportunities in terms of healthcare in the future, medical scientists are going to play an even more central role.

Dr. Colm Henry, the chief clinical officer of the HSE, is kicking off a review which will look at medical scientists more broadly across the public health system. One thing we are looking at is bringing in an advanced practice role, the equivalent of an advanced nurse practitioner, ANP, or advanced medical practitioner, AMP, in this area which is very exciting.

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