Following the announcement from Cardiff University that it’s consulting on proposals to stop nursing courses at the University, Local MS for Monmouth, Peter Fox, has raised concerns about the impact this could have on Wales.
According to the Royal College of Nursing, the proposals would result in all 78 academic staff losing their positions. The consultation, which opened on 29th January will run for 90 days, before final plans are considered by the university’s council.
Concerns have been raised about the proposals due to the severe nursing shortage currently faced in Wales, with these cuts threatening the supply of nurses into one of the largest health boards in Wales.
Peter Fox, Member of the Senedd for Monmouth, and Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure, Transport & Rural Affairs, has said:
“This announcement has certainly raised concerns across Wales. Cardiff University is recognised as the number one provider of nursing courses in Wales, and the fifth in the UK, losing this provision would be devastating for the profession and Wales.”
“The Welsh Government is responsible for commissioning nurse education contracts, and I know the Royal College of Nursing are calling on the Government to maintain nursing courses at Cardiff University. I certainly hope Welsh Ministers are listening to these calls, and will find a solution.”
“The timing of this announcement has understandably caused concern for students who are either on existing courses, or due to start in the autumn, and I hope support is being given to both them and academic staff through this difficult period.”
“At a time when Wales needs more nurses than ever, these announcements do nothing except deal a devastating blow to an already overstretched workforce. I sincerely hope the Welsh Government will take action to ensure that these proposals do not come to fruition.”
