Whether your flying in for a Locum GP placement or relocating to start a new role, knowing how to navigate through airports in Ireland can save you time and stress. This blog breaks down the major airports in Ireland, transport links, and hotel options.
How Many Airports Are in Ireland?
In the Republic of Ireland, there are five major airports:
- Dublin Airport
- Cork Airport
- Shannon Airport
- Ireland West Airport (Knock)
- Kerry Airport
In addition to these, smaller regional airports like Donegal Airport and Connemara Airport support domestic travel. Including Northern Ireland’s three commercial airports, there are over a dozen operating airports in Ireland.
Dublin Airport – Ireland’s Main Gateway
If your traveling from overseas, Dublin Airport will likely be your arrival point. It is the biggest airport in Ireland and also the busiest, with extensive flight connections across Europe, North America, and the Middle East.
Terminals
Dublin Airport has two terminals. Terminal 1 mainly handles short-haul flights, while Terminal 2 serves most long-haul flights. Passengers flying to the USA can clear U.S. immigration at the pre-clearance facility in Terminal 2. The terminals are a short walk apart and connected by a covered walkway.
Dublin Airport Parking
There are options for both short-stay and long-term parking at Dublin Airport.
Short term parking: For short-term parking, options include Terminal 1 Car Park A, Terminal 1 Car Park C, and the Terminal 2 Short-Term Car Park, all conveniently located near both terminals for easy access.
Long- term parking: There are car parks Express Red and Holiday Blue which offer shuttle buses to and from the terminals.
Car rentals
Car rentals in Dublin airport are available from rental desks in the Arrivals halls of Terminal 1 and 2.
Hotels
The Clayton Hotel Dublin Airport is a popular choice for overnight stays. It offers a free shuttle bus every 30 minutes. The hotel is just 10 minutes from the airport.
Other nearby options are the Maldron Hotel Dublin Airport, the Radisson Blu, and the Premier Inn. All are easy to reach from the airport.
Airport Bus Routes
You can find detailed information on all Dublin Airport bus routes, including pick-up and drop-off points on the Dublin Airport website, and book tickets directly through the Dublin Airport coach booking page.
Cork Airport – Convenient for the South
Terminals
Cork airport has one terminal which handles both arrivals and departures for all flights.
Cork Airport Parking
Short-Term Parking: Ideal for drop-offs, pick-ups, or short stays. You can pre-book short-term parking online for added convenience and potential savings.
Long-Term Parking: Similar to Dublin Airport, Cork Airport has two long-term car parks. Parking spaces are available for both drive-up access and online pre-booking.
Car Rental
A range of car rental companies operate from the arrivals area at Cork Airport, including Avis, Budget, Enterprise and Sixt. You can find the full list of providers on the official Cork Airport car rental page.
Airport Bus Routes
From Cork Airport, you can take Bus Éireann services to Cork city centre, Carrigaline, Ringaskiddy, Haulbowline, Kinsale, Riverstick, and Belgooly. Citylink also operates buses from the airport to Limerick and Galway.
You can view all Cork Airport bus routes, including pick-up and drop-off locations, and book tickets directly through the official Cork Airport coach booking page.
Shannon Airport – Access to Western Ireland
Terminals
Shannon Airport has a single terminal that handles all arrivals and departures, making navigation quick and straightforward.
Parking
If your flying into Shannon Airport it’s worth arranging your parking ahead of time. Shannon Airport offers three on-site car parks: Park4Less from €9 a day, Long Stay closer to the terminal from €10 a day, and Short Stay right next to the terminal from €24 a day. All options include free cancellations, no transfers, and best price guarantees when booked online.
Parking options can be booked online via their official website.
Buses
Shannon Airport is well connected by public transport, with several bus routes serving the airport daily. Whether your heading to Limerick, Galway, Ennis, or Dublin, you’ll find convenient and affordable options. Timetables, route details, and ticket information are available on the official Shannon Airport bus page.
Car Hire
A range of trusted rental companies operate onsite, offering a variety of vehicles to suit different budgets and needs. Booking in advance is recommended to secure the best rates and availability. For more information and to reserve your vehicle, visit the official Shannon Airport car hire page.
Ireland West Airport Knock – Western Regional Access
Terminals
Knock Airport (Ireland West Airport) operates with one main terminal that serves both domestic and international flights. The terminal offers convenient facilities including dining, shopping, and car hire services.
Railway
The nearest railway station to Ireland West Airport is Claremorris (31 km away) or Ballyhaunis (22km away), both on the Dublin Heuston – Westport line. These stations can be accessed by airport taxis or by bus.
Buses
Ireland West Airport (Knock) is well-connected by regular bus services linking the airport to towns and villages across Donegal, Galway, Sligo, and Mayo, with additional connections to Leitrim, Roscommon, and the Midlands.
You can start to plan your journey and view current routes and timetables, visit the official Bus Éireann Routes and Timetables page.
Kerry Airport – Southwest Access
For healthcare professionals working in Tralee or Killarney, Kerry Airport offers an accessible option. This airport in County Kerry, Ireland has regular domestic flights, including to Dublin.
Terminals
Kerry Airport features a single terminal that caters to both domestic and international flights.
Buses
Outside the main terminal is a Bus Terminus with bus services available directly from Kerry Airport to Tralee, Killarney and Limerick linking into the Bus Eireann network. Tickets for all bus services may be purchased onboard the bus.
Car Hire
The Car Hire companies’ offices are located in the Long-Term Car Park which is only a one-minute walk from the main terminal and can also be booked online.
Taxis
A list of local taxis is available on the Kerry Airport Ireland website and can be prebooked for your arrival.
Regional Airports
Donegal Airport
Donegal Airport is useful for those working in the northwest, especially near Letterkenny University Hospital. Flight options are limited, but convenient for local access.
Connemara Airport
Located west of Galway, this airport serves the Aran Islands. It’s essential for those doing outreach work or GP clinics in Inis Mór, Inis Meáin, or Inis Óirr.
Airports in Northern Ireland
Belfast International Airport
A practical option for those working in northern counties like Donegal, Leitrim, or Cavan.
George Best Belfast City Airport
Closer to Belfast city centre, this airport provides fast access to UK cities and regional towns.
City of Derry Airport
Convenient for healthcare professionals in the northwestern part of Ireland, including border communities.
Summary
Whether your planning your travel for a Locum position, starting a new role as a Nurse or relocating to Ireland as a Doctor, knowing how to get from the airport to your final destination can help make the process easier and avoid complications.
From the busy airports in Ireland like Dublin to regional hubs such as Knock Airport or Shannon Airport, each offers distinct advantages depending on your destination.
The healthcare sector in Ireland is diverse. Many professionals work together to provide quality, person-centered care.One of the most important parts of this system is Health and Social Care Professionals (HSCPs). They are a group of Allied Health Professionals. Health & Social Care Professionals play a key role in treating and supporting people in different healthcare settings.
Historically known as “Allied Health Professionals,” the HSE has recently adopted the term Health and Social Care Professionals to reflect the broad scope of roles and responsibilities within the sector. This change underscores their essential contributions to patient care and overall health and wellbeing.
What are health and social care professionals?
For Health and Social Care Professionals their work environment can vary, including hospitals, clinics, community health organisations, private practices, and care homes. Their main goal is to improve patients’ quality of life through direct clinical help and personalised care.
Some key roles within the Health and Social Care Professionals (HSCPs) include:
- Physiotherapists: Physiotherapists help patients recover mobility and manage physical conditions, such as injuries, disabilities, and chronic pain.
- Occupational Therapists: Occupational therapists assist individuals in performing daily activities, especially those recovering from illnesses, injuries, or dealing with developmental issues.
- Speech and Language Therapists: Speech & Language Therapists support patients in overcoming communication and swallowing difficulties, whether because of speech impairments or neurological conditions.
- Dietitians: Dietitians provide expert nutritional advice to patients and help manage conditions like diabetes and obesity
- Radiographers: Radiographers use medical imaging technologies to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of various health conditions.
They are essential to the healthcare system, ensuring that patients receive the timely and personalised care they need to improve their quality of life. For further information on roles click here.
The regulation of health and social care professionals in Ireland
In Ireland, the Health and Social Care Professionals Act 2005 established CORU, the body responsible for regulating health and social care workers. CORU oversees a wide range of professions to ensure they meet the required standards of ethical practice and conduct
CORU is crucial in ensuring that professionals are suitably qualified and adhere to high standards of care. By regulating these professions, CORU aims to protect the public and improve the quality of healthcare services throughout Ireland.
Why communication is important in health & social care
Effective communication in health & social care is the foundation of providing high-quality care. Whether interacting with patients, their families, or other healthcare professionals clear communication is essential in health and social care settings.
Key skills in health & social care include:
- Active listening: Ensuring patients feel heard and understood.
- Communication skills: Helping families understand treatment plans and careful planning of procedures
- Collaboration: Building and maintaining professional relationships is vital in Health & Social Care. Effective communication with the multidisciplinary team hilights the importance of partnership working in health & social care.
Given the complex and diverse needs of patients, good communication helps health and social care professionals to build trust, reduce misunderstandings, and ultimately provide better outcomes for patients.
Building and maintaining professional relationships in health & social care
One of the core quailities of a Health and Social Care Professional is the ability to build strong professional relationships. This includes establishing trust with patients, working effectively within multidisciplinary teams, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to deliver comprehensive care.
Furthermore, the duty of care in Health and Social Care settings means that all professionals must maintain high standards and work collaboratively with other members of the healthcare team to provide the best person centred care.
Training and career development
Continued education and training are critical for professional growth and to ensure the delivery of high-quality care. Postgraduate courses can help professionals improve their knowledge and skills advance in their careers.
There are many courses available to HSCP’s to further their professional development, ranging from foundational courses to more specialised training. Some of Health & Social Care courses that are commonly available include:
Diplomas in Health & Social Care Management: These courses are ideal for those in or aspiring to leadership roles. Effective leadership is crucial for improving patient care and influencing positive change in healthcare settings.
Leadership in Healthcare: Healthcare professionals, including SLTs, Physios, and OTs, might take a Leadership in Healthcare course to enhance their ability to manage teams, lead projects, and navigate the complexities of the healthcare system.
Healthcare Risk Management: A Healthcare Risk Management course would be beneficial to HSCP’s to better understand how to identify, assess, and avoid risks in clinical settings. With an understanding of risk management, HSCP’s can develop strategies to manage clinical risks.
Health and social care careers in Ireland
Health and Social Care jobs are in high demand in Ireland, with a wide range of opportunities available for both entry-level and experienced professionals.
Working within the Health and Social Care Service in Ireland offers several benefits, including:
- Opportunities for career progression, from clinical roles to management and leadership positions.
- The ability to specialise in a particular area, such as paediatric physiotherapy or geriatric occupational therapy.
- A rewarding career that allows you to make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
Summary
At Medforce, we are committed to supporting health and social care professionals as they embark on, or advance in their careers. Whether you are a recent graduate or an experienced professional looking for your next opportunity, we can help you find the right position that aligns with your skills and passions. With the right skills and training you can have a fulfilling career in one of Ireland’s most important industries.
In Ireland, Health and Social Care workers must register with CORU. This ensures they meet the CORU standards of proficiency, showcasing fitness to practice. Registration confirms your qualifications and helps you gain recognition from professional bodies in the healthcare system.
This article explains the registration process, highlights its importance, and demonstrates how your qualifications receive recognition, especially for international professionals.
What is the Regulatory Body?
CORU oversees the regulation of various professionals, including Social Care Workers, Physios, Psychologists, and more. The body trains, qualifies, and ensures the ethical practice of these professionals.
By registering, professionals show their skills and commitment to CORU standards. This helps ensure that people receive quality care from the Health and Social Care professionals.
Why is Registration Important?
Registration ensures that professionals meet high standards, such as competence, professionalism, and ethical conduct. These standards outline the necessary knowledge, skills, and behaviors to provide quality services.
Registered professionals receive official registration giving their qualifications legal recognition. This builds public trust and confirms their commitment to continuing professional conduct and ethics. Maintaining registration ensures that professionals deliver care consistently and safely, in line with CORU Ireland standards of proficiency and demonstrates continuing professional development.
How to Apply for Registration
The registration process can vary by profession, but the general steps are:
- Complete the CORU Application form: Go to the CORU login on the website and fill out the form. Provide your personal details and proof of your qualifications and work experience.
- CORU Check the Register: After you submit your application, use the CORU registration login to check your application’s progress.
- Submit Documents: Provide papers that show your education. This will help confirm that you meet the skill standards in the code of professional conduct.
- Pay Fees: After submission, you can pay the registration fees online.
- Finish the Process: After someone checks your application and confirms that all is correct, they will add you to the register. You will then legally gain the right to practice.
Recognition for International Professionals
If you are an international professional, it’s important to have your qualifications recognised. Use the “Check the Register” feature to see if your qualifications meet local standards. For some jobs, like Social Care Workers and Physiotherapists, employers may need to conduct an assessment. This ensures they meet Irish standards.
CORU recognition ensures consistency and safety in healthcare and maintains public trust.
CORU Registration for Social Care Workers
Why is CORU Important for Social Care Workers?
CORU registration for social care professionals indicates they possess the necessary education and training, ensuring they can support vulnerable people effectively. The necessary criteria guarantee care by skilled professionals.
Benefits for registered Social care workers include:
- Professional Recognition: Demonstrates skills and helps build trust with employers and the public. It also provides recognition of international qualifications.
- Legal Protection: This helps you practice ethically and legally. It follows the code of professional conduct and the Care Professionals Act 2005.
- Career Advancement: Opens better job opportunities and career growth.
Psychologists and Professionals Development
The Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI) accredits Psychology programs. Registration ensures that Psychologists meet the required standards. This helps provide quality mental health services. Registered Psychologists must adhere to the Psychological Society of Irelands code of ethics, ensuring high professional standards.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a Social Care Worker, Physiotherapist, Psychologist, or another professional, completing the multi profession health registration process establishes your identity as a qualified practitioner.
To start, check the register and fill out the registration form. Then, follow the steps to practice legally in Ireland. For more details, visit the official CORU website.
In the meantime, explore open roles within the Health and Social Care Professions on our job board.