Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

To use the example of health professions needed, we have done more than make a good stab at that. A lot of positive work has taken place on an all-island basis with all of the universities across the island, making sure that those who will be needed for various different therapies and disciplines in medicine can be trained on an all-island basis and be supported by the Government in this jurisdiction. That is important. Further work needs to be done. The Deputy will have heard the Taoiseach speaking in the Dáil about access for people with disabilities and the therapists needed. There is a challenge for higher education institutions to take in more people. We are confident it will be possible to take in more people in various disciplines in collaboration with the HSE to make sure they are trained on wards in hospitals and get proper placements. There is a body of work in that regard. Across the range of the economy, this is the bread and butter of the National Skills Council, together with my Department, SOLAS, ETBs and universities. It is what they look at and they try to do what the Deputy did, which is look into the crystal ball to see where we will be in 2030 or 2035 and make the best guesstimate for that.

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