Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I understand the thrust of what the Minister is trying to achieve, the referencing to the Competition Act, and it is worthy of our support. It is crucial that such consultation take place.

2 o’clock

I welcome the fact that it has finally got under way. It has been awaited for a long time. I wish the exercise every success. Although there is no difference with regard to what is already provided for in subsection (8) on page 5, the amendment says the Minister shall have regard to any agreement entered into between the Minister and representatives of relevant medical practitioners relating to the conduct of consultations under subsection (5). I am anxious to know if the IMO is the sole representative body with whom the Minister must engage. Does he expect to have to engage with any other representative bodies of medical professions on the matters provided for in the legislation?

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