Brendan Griffin (Kerry South, Fine Gael)
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710. To ask the Minister for Health the cost to the State per annum and in total for every medical student that qualifies in Irish universities; his views that many of these students leave Ireland immediately after qualifying; if he is concerned with this drain on our finances and human resources; his plans to address the problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18538/14]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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The first step in the medical career pathway is a five- or six-year undergraduate programme. There are six medical schools in Ireland; a number of which offer accelerated four-year medical programmes for graduates of other disciplines.

I have been advised by officials in the Department of Education and Skills that the total educational cost of a medical graduate is estimated to be in the region of €80,000 to €100,000. This cost does not all fall to be met by the State. In relation to undergraduate medical programmes, most students pay a student contribution; this is currently set at €2,500 per annum and will rise to €3,000 in 2015. Eligible students (grant holders) may have this paid on their behalf. Undergraduate students who are not eligible for "free fees" are liable to pay fees. In relation to graduate medical programmes, the student pays a fee of approximately €15,000 per year.

I am anxious that we retain Irish medical school graduates in the Irish public health system. I am also concerned that funding assigned goes to produce the world class medical service we all desire and expect. For these reasons, in July 2013, I established a Working Group, chaired by Professor Brian MacCraith, President of DCU, to carry out a strategic review of medical training and career structure. The Working Group is examining relevant issues and making high-level recommendations relating to training and career pathways for doctors, with a view to: improving graduate retention in the public health system; planning for future service needs; and realising maximum benefit from investment in medical education and training. The group began its deliberations in September 2013 and, to date, has submitted two reports, which are available on my Department's website. Professor MacCraith is due to submit the Working Group's final report by the end of June 2014.