Tim O'Malley (Limerick East, Progressive Democrats)

I move amendment No. 7:

In page 12, line 38, to delete "12" and substitute "9".

Deputies will recall that on Committee Stage, it was signalled that consideration was being given to the overall composition of the council and that a substantive amendment to section 9 would be tabled on Report Stage.

The health and social care professionals council will have a pivotal role in the system of statutory registration established under the Bill. Its object is to protect the public by promoting high standards of professional conduct, education, training and competence among registrants of the designated professions. It will have responsibility for overseeing and co-ordinating the activities of the registration boards. It will also enforce standards of practice for registrants, including the codes of professional conduct and ethics adopted by registration board. Moreover, the council has responsibility for establishing committees of inquiry into complaints against registrants of the designated professions and for making decisions regarding the imposition of disciplinary sanctions on registrants.

When providing for membership arrangements for the council, it is essential, therefore, to strike a good balance between professional expertise, knowledge of the health service and public interest so that the council is in the best position to fulfil its responsibilities. On this basis, and as indicated on Committee Stage, I have tabled amendment No. 11, which provides for the inclusion of three people among the council membership who have such qualifications, interests and experience which, in the opinion of the Minister, would be of value to the council in performing its functions.

The overall number of members will not change, nor will the overall balance of practitioner and lay members. Amendments Nos. 7 and 9 are, therefore, technical amendments, consequent to amendment No. 11. Amendment No. 13 provides for the Minister to consult, as appropriate, in regard to appointments.

Opposition amendments Nos. 8 and 9 suggest that the number of educational representatives on the council should be increased from one to two, with a corresponding reduction in the number of public interest representatives. The council does not have a primary interest in educational matters for the various professions, the responsibility for which lies with the relevant registration boards. As part of the functions and powers of the council, it should encourage registration boards to collaborate with each other, including in the professional education and training of registrants. In light of this fact, I consider that the specific inclusion of one third level representative on the council is sufficient representation from that sector and the proposed Opposition amendments are, therefore, not accepted.

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