Vast majority of nurses consider emigration after courses finish

The vast majority of student nurses have considered emigrating when they finish college.

Union of Students in Ireland (USI) said countries with a huge shortage of nurses including England, America and Australia are actively recruiting Irish nurses, with some even offering them positions before they have finished their final year.

The USI added that if 93% of nurses leave the country when they qualify (93% said they considered doing so), we are essentially deporting essential skills, talent and finance.

USI President Kevin Donoghue said many student nurses wanted to stay in Ireland, but there were better opportunities abroad.

He said for example that a lot of those who move to England to start their careers have their flights, first month’s accommodation and postgraduate studies paid for.

The survey was carried out among 600 student nurses.

"It's a difficult time for student nurses," he said. "People want to stay at home and be among their friends and families, but the pull factors of opportunities (abroad) are quite strong."