207. Deputy Marc Ó Cathasaigh asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science his plans to increase places for radiation therapists in universities, given their inclusion on the critical skills list, and to help address the staffing deficits and service provision challenges in radiation oncology centres across the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39520/24]

Expanding the number of places available on Health and Social Care Profession (HSCP) programmes, including radiation therapy, is a priority for my Department. Currently there is one undergraduate programme in Trinity College Dublin, and a post graduate programme in University College Cork. Both Universities have met with officials in my Department and the Department of Health and the HSCP office in the HSE, to explore options to increase capacity on these programmes.

There are some issues, which are in the control of the health sector which need to be considered in any proposal to expand places on programmes like Radiation Therapy. These relate to guarantees of clinical placements and qualified practice tutors for students on placements. This requires the Department of Health and the HSE to ensure there are suitable placements and personnel available.

I understand that some funding has been allocated by the Department of Health to support the development of sustainable practice education broadly for the Health and Social Care Professions. The National Health and Social Care Professions Office in the HSE is coordinating this process and leading on a number of programmes to support practice education for Health and Social Care Professions which will include identifying essential requirements.

My Department will continue to engage actively with relevant officials in both the health and education sectors to facilitate expansion of places on these programmes.