Childcare access discussed by IMGTI committee

Lack of access to childminder visas has been raised by the operational committee of the International Medical Graduate Training Initiative (IMGTI).

At a meeting in November 2024, the committee heard it would “not be possible” to access visas for childminders/nannies for the children of IMGTI trainees.

This conclusion was based on communications with the Department of Justice, according to meeting minutes obtained under Freedom of Information law.

A HSE spokesperson told the Medical Independent: “This issue related to a challenge an IMGTI trainee was experiencing obtaining a visa for their nanny, rather than a visa-related challenge for an IMGTI trainee or any family members.”

The HSE was “not aware” of any doctors who had been prevented from joining the IMGTI programme due to lack of childcare options.

Candidates are provided with guidance on relocating to Ireland, according to the HSE.

“Similar to other NCHDs and healthcare workers, access to childcare and accommodation can be problematic. As part of the recruitment process for doctors joining the IMGTI programme a series of webinars are provided to successful candidates with detailed information and guidance on relocating to Ireland, including information on sourcing accommodation and childcare.”

There are currently 286 doctors undertaking training within the IMGTI programme.

Under the initiative, international doctors can access a structured period of training and experience as developed by an Irish postgraduate medical training body.