Occupational Therapists play a vital role in helping individuals of all ages with physical, mental and psychological challenges. Their goal is to support independence and improve overall quality of life.

Occupational Therapists form an essential part of Ireland’s Health and Social Care Professionals (HSCP) workforce. They frequently work within multidisciplinary teams to deliver holistic and patient-centred care across a variety of settings.

In 2024 Irelands Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment released a Critical Skills Occupations List outlining the skills and positions experiencing staff shortages. As an Occupational Therapist, you can apply for a Critical Skills Employment Permit. This permit replaces the old green card and helps bring skilled workers into the Irish job market. If you are a qualified Occupational Therapist, the permit offers a clear path to work in Ireland.

Whether you’re considering a career in Occupational Therapy or exploring job opportunities and salary prospects, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know from education and registration with CORU, to career pathways and the growing demand for OTs across the country.

Where Can You Study Occupational Therapy

In Ireland, several universities offer CORU-accredited undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Occupational Therapy within their school of health sciences:

These courses give you the training and knowledge needed to start your career in Occupational Therapy. If you have qualified outside Ireland but would like to work in Ireland you can find further information here.

Registration with CORU

Registration with CORU

After completing your studies, you must register with CORU. CORU is the official body that regulates Health and Social Care Professionals in Ireland. For graduates, it is best to register for CORU as soon as you complete your studies to avoid delays in registration.

To register, you’ll need to show proof of your:

Once you’re on the CORU register, you’re officially a licensed Occupational Therapist and can begin to practice.

Where Do Occupational Therapists Work

Occupational Therapists work in a wide range of work environments, helping people with health conditions improve their daily lives. Some of the most common work settings include:

Career Opportunities in Occupational Therapy

1. Specialist Occupational Therapist

Focus deeply in one area such as neurology, hand therapy, physical rehabilitation or mental health.

2. Senior or Clinical Specialist OT

These roles involve advanced clinical work, supervision of junior staff, and sometimes research.

3. Management and Leadership

OTs can move into team lead, manager, or service coordinator roles. These come with broader oversight and strategic responsibilities.

4. Academic or Research Roles

Some Occupational Therapists decide to keep studying by getting a Master’s or PhD. They may then teach or do research at universities.

5. Private Practice

Once experienced, some OT’s set up their own clinics or consultancy services. This gives more autonomy and flexibility, especially for those with niche expertise.

6. International Opportunities

Irish-trained OT’s are highly regarded globally. Many choose to work in countries like the UK, Australia, Canada, or the U.S. (with appropriate licensing).

Occupational Therapist Salaries in the HSE

Salaries in the HSE for Occupational Therapists vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and role. As professionals gain experience or take on more senior positions, earnings typically increase. For more details on salary, refer to the HSE pay scales.

Summary

Occupational Therapy offers a meaningful and rewarding career. Working with people to improve their everyday lives while continuing to learn and grow as a professional. You can learn more about Occupational Therapy roles available here.

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:

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:

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:

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:

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:

  1. 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.
  2. CORU Check the Register: After you submit your application, use the CORU registration login to check your application’s progress.
  3. Submit Documents: Provide papers that show your education. This will help confirm that you meet the skill standards in the code of professional conduct.
  4. Pay Fees: After submission, you can pay the registration fees online.
  5. 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?

Effective December 1st 2025, all Social Care Workers will be required to have CORU registration. Registration confirms Social Care professionals possess the necessary education and training, ensuring they can support vulnerable people effectively. The necessary criteria guarantees the highest quality care for patients.

Benefits for registered Social Care Workers include:

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 CORU registration 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.

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