Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 July 2014
641. Deputy Eoghan Murphy asked the Minister for Health if it is the case that members of the dentistry profession or any medical profession have to disclose gifts received by industry, for example, hospitality, entertainment or travel; the way such disclosures are policed or regulated; and if he is satisfied with current practice in this area. [30976/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder the Ethics in Public Office Act 1995 and the Standards in Public Office Act 2001 certain prescribed bodies must furnish a statement of compliance with legislation to the Standards in Public Office Commission. These bodies include Government Departments, public officials and public servants. Compliance with legislation is overseen by the Standards in Public Office Commission. Public servants in designated positions of employment must complete an annual compliance statement in the context of the Ethics in Public Office Acts, which provides details of occupational income, shares, directorships, land (excluding private home), travel and accommodation, meals (supplied free of charge or at a price that was less than the commercial price), other remunerated positions, public service contracts, gifts, property and services given and other interests. However, this requirement does not apply to private individuals or other agents contracted by the public sector to provide certain services.
The Dental Council advises the dental profession and the public on matters relating to dental ethics and professional behaviour. It has not issued guidance on the acceptance of gifts or hospitality from industry and this issue has not been raised with the Dental Council. In relation to the medical profession, the Medical Council has issued guidance (October 2012) in this area " Guide to Professional Conduct and Ethics for Registered Medical Practitioners". This document clarifies the ethical guidance which the Medical Council gives to doctors' interactions with pharmaceutical and medical device companies.
