Number Of GP Training Places Will Increase From July

Tuesday, 6 June 2023 11:37

By Caoimhe Harney

At present there are 932 trainees undertaking the 4 year-programme.

The number of GP training places will rise to 285 this coming July, before increasing to 350 in July 2024 which will see 1,300 trainees undertaking the programme.

The GP training scheme, which is run by the Irish College of General Practitioners, accepted 258 new doctors onto its 2022/2023 specialist training programme.

At present there are 932 trainees undertaking the 4 year-programme.

Kildare North, Fianna Fáil TD, James Lawless commented: "I was also pleased to hear of the significant planned increase in the number of doctors participating in the successful non-EU GP Training Programme, which aims to identify, support and integrate a cohort of non-EU GPs into the rural Irish workforce.

"This programme has had an immediate impact on GP shortages and a number are already working in general practices around the country, with an intake of 100 doctors expected by the end of this year, and a further intake of 250 by the end of 2024.

“These are highly experienced and skilled GPs from around the world, who take part in a two-year programme combining frontline GP work with mentoring and training at designated practices.''

“Expanding the number of GP training places to an all-time high of 350, coupled with the great strides being made in our Non-EU Programme, further demonstrates Fianna Fáil's commitment in Government to strengthen our primary care services and increase our vital General Practice workforce," he concluded.