There are approximately 300 speech and language therapists working in the State. Two-thirds of these are members of the Irish Association of Speech and Language Therapists (IASLT), writes Olivia Kelly

Currently the only undergraduate course in the State is the BSc in clinical speech and language studies in TCD with an intake of 30 students each year.

Speech and language therapy is a female-dominated profession. In its 30- year history, the TCD undergraduate course has had fewer than five male students.

Starting point for basic grade speech and language therapist is: €27,488 to €36, 650; Senior: €36,051 to €42, 675; Manager: €43,722 to €48,730.

The department of clinical speech and language therapy in TCD plans to hold an open day in March.

Career information is also available from the IASLT, 29 Gardiner Place, Dublin 1.