2014 graduates denied entry to UK’s Foundation Training scheme

The decision to deny hundreds of Irish dental graduates entry to Foundation Training (FT) schemes across the UK has led the Irish Dental Association (IDA) chief executive to put out an urgent plea to Irish dental practices.

In recent years, the IDA has campaiged for the introduction of an Irish FT scheme that would enjoy recognition by the British authorities and enable Irish graduates the opportunity to access NHS positions in the UK as has traditionally been the case.

However, despite a detailed and costed submission, the Department of Health has refused to support the introduction of a FT scheme in Ireland.

IDA chief executive Fintan Hourihan said: “The immediate consequences are that dentists graduating from Cork and Dublin Dental Schools face unprecedented difficulty in securing positions this summer. The association is determined to escalate its efforts to see the introduction of an FT scheme but in the meantime we wish to assist this year’s graduates as best we can by putting them in touch with dentists here in Ireland who may be able to offer some opportunities for work in their practice.

“Therefore, we are asking members who would be interested in taking on 2014 graduates, to get in contact with us and we can circulate your details to the dentists concerned. It would be helpful if you could give an indication of the hours/weeks you may be able to offer, terms and conditions you are prepared to offer, the type of practice you run and any other appropriate information.”