Liam Twomey (Wexford, Fine Gael)

The Medical Practitioners Bill 2007 is about protecting the potential 4 million patients in the country and this is what must be foremost in our debate. As a doctor I am a registered member of the Medical Council, but my role today is as a politician and representative of the people. As both a doctor and a legislator, I welcome the legislation.

While I welcome almost all the proposals in the legislation, I have some concerns. Our most important focus in this debate must be on whether we protect patients. I have been involved in the medical profession for the past 20 years where I have seen more than my fair share of arrogance. This arrogance annoys me and I would like to see it rooted out, as would the majority of people in the health care area.

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