§ 15. Rev. Martin SmythTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what representations he has received concerning the shortfall of revenue allocation for 1988–89 for nurse education; what impact he estimates this will have on the Health Service in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NeedhamRepresentations were made by the National Board for Nursing, Midwifery and Health 331W Visiting in its letter of 25 May 1988 to the Department of Health and Social Services which alleged there was a shortfall of £154,000 in its revenue allocation for the 1988–89 financial year. The letter also contained a request that the permanent secretary and the chief nursing officer of the Department meet a deputation from the national board. This request has been accepted and arrangements for the meeting are being finalised. It will be for the national board to decide its priorities within the available revenue allocation, but it is expected that in the current year some vacant posts might not be filled.