Jillian van Turnhout (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank our guests for raising this critical issue with the committee and Senator John Crown for ensuring it was included in our agenda. I agree with Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin that our guests' presentations were very clear and that they should be forwarded, unedited, to the Minister and his Department. I become very concerned when people refer to Groupon offers and patient safety issues. Our guests have clearly indicated that if a mole is removed by means of laser treatment in a beauty salon, it cannot be checked there to see if it is cancerous.

I am also concerned about advertising. I did a quick search on Google in respect of plastic or reconstructive surgery and discovered that it was all focused on beauty. Senator John Crown correctly highlighted the importance of reconstructive surgery in particular instances. However, I am concerned by the focus on beauty and the two-for-one offers to which Ms Kelly referred. Even having listened to our guests' presentations, I would not be able to distinguish which of the various websites are legitimate and which are not. This is another major cause of concern, as is the liberal use of the terms "our specialists" or "our consultants" on the websites in question. I agree, therefore, that there is a need for regulation.

I again thank our guests for bringing this matter to our attention. It is unusual that members do not have further questions to ask, but this is because our guests have outlined the position so well for us.