In 2004, the Labour Court recommended that the Deptartment of Health and Children pay sponsorship to 32 nurses who completed a public health nursing diploma in 2003/2004. The recommendation was signed on 29 November 2004. The Irish Nurses Organisation sought refunds of fees and salary under Circular 85/2000, arguing that the agreement entitled all students to sponsorship. The department said places depended on workforce need and regional quotas. The Court accepted the union's interpretation and recommended payment of the sponsorship, alongside consultation to improve the quota system.