Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 June 2024
74. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the work of his Department to encourage participation in social work and social care qualifications to greater empower Tusla, given the organisation's shortage of staff. [27061/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraOur health and social care professionals are vital to so many of our public services, advocating for the most vulnerable in our society. Ensuring we have a sufficient supply of social work and social care professionals is a priority for my Department.
That is why I was delighted to recently announce the launch of two new pathways in social work which will both increase the number of people training as social workers, and open up the profession to a broader range of people than ever before.
These pathways are:
- An apprenticeship in Social Work, allowing apprentice social workers to “earn while they learn” as they gain on-the-job practical experience and a level 9 Social Work qualification; and
- A Social Work tertiary degree programme, co-delivered by University College Cork and Cork Education and Training Board, allowing learners to access this undergraduate degree outside the CAO system.
Supported by the National Tertiary Office and the National Apprenticeship Office, these programmes are taking a big step forward in encouraging participation in Social Work qualifications, allowing individuals with a broad range of life experiences to access a career that allows them to make a positive impact on the lives of others. My Department will continue to work to encourage the development of new and innovative pathways to allow people to train in vital areas such as social care and social work.
My Department is committed to working with the Minister for Health, the Minister for Children, Disability, Equality, Integration and Youth, and the Minister for Education to further progress this work.
