John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 213: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on the time it takes to complete registration with An Bord Altranais, relative to applicants from other European countries; if the timeframe in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny is typical; the reason their case has not been approved in view of the fact that they applied in January 2004; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3422/06]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context

An Bord Altranais has statutory responsibility for the registration of nurses under the Nurses Act 1985.

I am sure that the Deputy will appreciate that An Bord Altranais must process each application thoroughly to ensure that all those entered on the register of nurses are deemed professionally qualified and competent for such registration. The protection of the public underpins this process. I am satisfied that the board discharges its functions in a professional manner.

In 2005, some 3,576 newly registered qualifications were entered on the register. I am informed that decisions are normally issued to individual applicants within six weeks. However, errors or omissions in information supplied to the board can cause delays. It may be that reasons such as these have contributed to any delay in processing the application referred to by the Deputy.

Given the statutory functions of the board it would not be appropriate for the Minister to intervene in individual applications for registration.