Vol. 472 No. 6
72 Mr. B. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Health whether he intends to introduce legislation to provide for statutory registration for health and social professions which will include the chiropody/podiatry profession; and if so, when. [23945/96]
Limerick East): Officials of my Department held a one day information workshop on the statutory registration of certain designated health and social professions in Dublin Castle on 1 November 1995. The workshop provided 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 were in attendance, including members of four groups which represent the interests of the chiropodists. However, while work on this area is ongoing within my Department, it should be noted that these discussions are still at a preliminary stage.
