Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)

I thank the Minister. Another difficulty is that the CDNT in County Cavan is led by Enable Ireland. We know it has difficulties with recruiting and retaining staff because of the issue around section 38 and section 39 workers. I know that is a broader Government issue but it needs to be addressed.

Have the universities and colleges made enough places available to ensure we have the professionals to deliver healthcare and meet the ongoing and increasing demand for different healthcare services across our country? I understand there is still a shortfall in the numbers graduating compared with those who are retiring. We must also consider the increased demand.

An issue was brought to my attention at the weekend. It may not be absolutely accurate. Apparently, study in speech and language therapy, occupational therapy and other therapies takes the form of an apprenticeship in Britain rather than the traditional university or college route that we take. There may be a financial incentive for some students from our State to go to those colleges in Britain. It is an area that the Minister, the Department, the HSE and our colleges need to keep a close eye on. We do not want students being drawn from our State because of a monetary attraction to pursue a specific course at a British college.

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