Can I raise the shortage of radiation therapists? I understand there is a 34% shortfall and, as a result, four machines, which are extremely expensive, are not being used. Will the Minister work with the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Deputy Simon Harris, to increase the number of training places? There are currently only 30 training places in Trinity College Dublin. A postgraduate course in UCC has 12 places. Only 12 people at any one time are in training in this country on a yearly basis. Having only 42 places available is totally insufficient for the demand that is there. Can the number of training places be expanded in third level colleges that are prepared to take this on and work with the health service to make sure they get the expertise and experience in order to provide the service? I also understand that in a survey, 60% of radiation therapists indicated they intend to retire within the next five years.

I was part of a discussion earlier in the week on the general point the Deputy raised on how we can work with our colleges of higher and further education to meet the skill needs that are health service has. As part of that, the issue of radiation therapists was included. I thank the Deputy for raising this important issue. In light of equipment that is not working because staff are not available, I will raise this matter with the Ministers, Deputies Harris and Stephen Donnelly, to see if progress can be made. I know they are aware of the general issue the Deputy has raised and are trying to respond to it.