I presume that the Deputy is referring to the introduction of a revised assessment mechanism for chiropodists who wish to work in the public health sector.
Following the settlement of a High Court case in November 1999, officials of my Department have been involved in discussions with the professional bodies representing chiropodists in Ireland with a view to agreeing the details of how such a revised assessment mechanism should be implemented.
The revised assessment mechanism is being established in the context of the introduction of a system of statutory registration for a number of health and social care professions, including chiropodists. The aim of the revised mechanism is to ensure that all who wish to practice as a chiropodist in the public health sector are suitably qualified to do so. Under the terms of the High Court settlement the committee will have to assess all applicants by means of interview and-or structured test. Only those whose qualifications are deemed suitable for public sector employment will be involved in carrying out the assessment procedure. These new measures will not result in the lowering of standards and those whose qualifications are not deemed suitable will be given an opportunity to upskill themselves. I am now in the process of establishing the ad hoc committee recommended under the High Court case.
