Charles Flanagan
Question:21 Mr. Flanagan asked the Minister for Health his views on the expansion of the Medical Council; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers - Medical Council.
Pat Rabbitte
Question:37 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Health the plans, if any, he has to alter the composition of the Medical Council; if, in particular he will consider allowing the Irish College of General Practitioners the right to nominate representatives directly to the council as in the case of certain other medical bodies; the plans, if any, he has to increase representation of the general public; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Robert Molloy
Question:53 Mr. Molloy asked the Minister for Health when he will publish his new amendments to the Medical Practitioners Act.
Peadar Clohessy
Question:82 Mr. Clohessy asked the Minister for Health when he will publish his new amendments to the Medical Practitioners Act.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 21, 37, 53 and 82 together.
My Department is currently involved in drawing up proposals for the amendment of the Medical Practitioners Act, 1978, having consulted with the Medical Council and having taken into account the views submitted by other interested parties. The views of the Attorney General have been sought in relation to certain aspects of the proposed amendments. I would hope to be in a position to bring heads of an amending Bill to Government before the end of this year.
With regard to the provisions of the Act governing membership of the Medical Council, it is my intention to provide in the amending legislation for some revision of the current membership of 25. As part of my proposals for revision of the membership provisions, I am considering the questions of making specific provision for the Irish College of General Practitioners to be an appointing body and of an increase in the public interest representation.