Frank Feighan (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Senator Doherty for raising this important issue. I reiterate our gratitude and pay tribute to student nurses, midwives and their healthcare colleagues who continue to deliver care right across the system during this unprecedented time.

The past nine months have demonstrated, more visibly than at any other time in our recent history, the dedication, skill and commitment of our healthcare workers. I am acutely aware that this was not without risk, particularly for everyone on the front line. In order to protect the education of these students, I look forward to bringing forward the details of the work under way within the Department when it is complete.

I will bring this back to the Minister to get it expedited. This issue is very much on the minds of many people. We hope the Department can look at this more favourably than this response.