The government is offering 13 health professionals the opportunity to specialise further in three specific areas, investing €2.1 million in courses abroad.

Addressing a press conference on Thursday afternoon, Health Minister Chris Fearne said that there were a number of areas where specialisation was still lacking and which would be required in the coming years.

Three students will be selected to further their studies in genetic counselling, another four in optometry and a further six in orthoptics.

The sponsorships, 80 per cent of which come from EU funds, cover in full tuition, books and equipment, travel costs, subsistence while abroad, employment and salary while following the course as well as guaranteed employment following completion of the course.

Candidates, who will be selected through a selection process monitored by a selection board, will study at either the University of Cardiff, the University of Sheffield or the City University of London.

The call for applications is open until August 10.

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