Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 901: To ask the Minister for Health if he runs a graduate internship programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41365/11]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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The first year of postgraduate medical training, the intern year, is undertaken in a teaching/university hospital following which doctors can apply to commence training in the area of medicine in which they hope to specialise.

The Health Service Executive is examining the possible use of JobBridge, the National Internship Scheme introduced by the Minister for Social Protection, in the health sector. JobBridge provides work experience placements for a 6 or 9 month period to jobseekers either as new entrants to the labour market after education or training, or as unemployed workers wishing to learn new skills. The Scheme also gives jobseekers an opportunity to gain valuable experience to bridge the gap between study and work.