asked the Minister for Health if his Department will give the Medical Council directions and advice in relation to the European Council recommendation of 21 December 1988 concerning nationals of member states who hold a diploma conferred in a third state as published in the Official Journal (details supplied) in order that a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath who is an Irish national may be issued with a registration certificate enabling him to continue his medical practice in this country; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Medical Practice.
61.
The recommendation referred to by the Deputy is an EC Directive concerning the mutual recognition, by EC member states, of general qualifications. Recognition of medical qualifications is governed by separate, specific directives. The recognition in Ireland of medical qualifications acquired in a third country is a matter for the Medical Council pursuant to the Medical Practitioners Act, 1978.
The Deputy will be glad to hear that in accordance with the provisions of that Act, the Medical Council has now made rules establishing a procedure which allows for the registration of a national of any member state who holds qualifications conferred by a third country, subject to individual assessment and compliance with the rules as laid down. The individual referred to by the Deputy should now contact the Medical Council in this regard.