Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

The measures the Minister of State outlined are about engagement with the institutions but not providing support to the individuals.The concern is that we are in a situation whereby the discussion is as if this education was a commodity rather than a pipeline for an essential public service. I have sat in committees where we talked about the lack of doctors and yet there does not seem to be a concern in relation to this. I would say that the bursary measure is the only measure that is targeted towards students and it is a woefully inadequate measure. Is there a recognition that this is a problem for the State in terms of not having sufficient numbers, which we have talked about briefly, but also not having sufficient diversity in those coming through our medical systems? I suggest that this is one area that is particularly different. The Minister of State, Deputy Collins, said that we do not give fees or grant assistance for a second degree. This, however, is an area where the State requires a second degree. This is a public need and is not solely around the individuals. There is a public need for more doctors and more diversity within the medical profession.