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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 22 Jun 2000

Vol. 521 No. 6

Written Answers. - Health Professions Regulations.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

94 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Health and Children the proposals, if any, he has to meet the concerns of a person (details supplied) in County Waterford in regard to statutory regulations for allied health professions and equal chiropody service throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17842/00]

The issue raised by the Deputy relates to discussions which my Department is holding with the relevant professional bodies on a possible scheme of statutory registration. A workshop on statutory registration was held on 14 April 2000 and an invitation was issued to the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists of Ireland to attend. The invitation was sent to the society's registered office, but apparently was not received by the organisation. Consequently, a separate meeting was organised by officials of my Department with officers of the society, and the society has been involved in the two subsequent workshops. I am committed to the full participation of all of the relevant professional bodies in the process.

With regard to equality of services, the health boards provide chiropody services through a panel of private practitioners on the basis of three treatments per annum to medical card holders over 65 years of age who require such a service. In exceptional circumstances, where the patient requires additional treatment, this is provided by the board.

I am satisfied that the health boards are addressing this issue in line with their responsibilities and I am committed to ensuring that they do so.

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