Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I understand the argument and case that Deputy Neville is making. He is absolutely right that there are a number of very strange people out there advertising their services as psychotherapists, counsellors and all sorts of other things. Not only may they not be very good, they can also do real harm in certain circumstances. If we are going to regulate the professions, we must ensure that we get it right. A number of issues need to be considered, including whether it will be one profession or two, which titles should be protected and which should not, given that people can always invent a new title and start to provide a service under it, what the qualifications should be and the readiness and compatibility of the professions as things stand. We must also look at grandparenting and the assessment of the qualifications and experience of good counsellors, particularly members of religious orders who have been providing a great service, including to my patients as a GP, but who may not fit the criteria. Further issues include the impact on psychology and social workers and international experience. I understand the experience in the UK has not been that good.

I assure the Deputy that the matter is not on the back burner. My officials will take a look at the document, on which I would be interested to hear the Deputy's views also. The next stage will be a further consultation once we know what direction we are going in.

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