The decision by the Government to pay student nurses during the COVID-19 (coronavirus) crisis has been welcomed by the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO).

Student nurses and midwives are to be offered healthcare assistant contracts during this period.

The INMO said that it will be seeking clarification on the scope of the students' practice in these roles, and how this will work in relation to their academic progression and placements.

However, it emphasised that this is a "really welcome step from the Government".

"It's good news for the student nurses, who will now be paid for their work on the frontlines. It's also good news for the wider health service. These are dedicated, talented, hard-working people who are keen to help in the global fight against COVID-19," commented INMO general secretary, Phil Ni Sheaghdha.

She added that taking student nurses on as paid staff "not only values their work, but offers them clear protections as employees".