Helen Keogh
Ceist:54 Ms Keogh asked the Minister for Health the plans, if any, he has to introduce a licensing system for care workers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15512/95]
Written Answers. - Licensing System.
Limerick East): Arrangements have been made by my Department for the holding of a one day information workshop on “The Statutory Registration of Certain Designated Health and Social Professions”, in Dublin Castle on 1 November 1995.
The purpose of the workshop is to provide a forum for discussion on the possible introduction of legislation which would allow for the regulation and control of a number of professions with a view to the maintenance of a high standard of professional education and conduct, amongst registered members of those professions, and so to protect the public.
Representatives of a wide range of professional bodies will be in attendance on the day, including representatives of The Child Care Worker's Association. I am quite well aware that it may be difficult to devise a scheme which will simultaneously meet the various requirements demanded by each of the various para-medical groupings and which would also provide for a system of self-financed regulation by the disciplines involved. Following the outcome of discussions at the forthcoming workshop, my Department will be in a better position to adjudicate on the feasibility of the possible introduction of statutory registration.