148. Deputy Noel Coonan asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Question No. 425 of 10 November 2015, the financial assistance available to encourage a qualified nurse (details supplied) to return and take up a position here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40865/15]

In July the HSE launched an International Staff Nurse/Midwife Recruitment Campaign which focused on the UK to attract staff nurses and midwives to jobs in Ireland. The current relocation package is up to €1500 in vouched removal/relocation expenses including the cost of flights. In addition, the Nursing Midwifery Board of Ireland registration costs will be paid on behalf of nurses relocating. At present there is no closing date for this campaign, as the HSE welcomes applications from nurses and midwives who are interested in joining the HSE from abroad on an ongoing basis. The HSE is making arrangements to specifically extend the campaign to locations that are further afield and in this context has sought sanction for an improved relocation package given the additional travel costs that would be involved.