Seanad debates

Wednesday, 17 November 2004

Health and Social Care Professionals Bill 2004: Committee Stage.

 

1:00 pm

Photo of Geraldine FeeneyGeraldine Feeney (Fianna Fail)

I agree with previous speakers that we must protect the title for one profession, namely, physical therapist-physiotherapist. Physiotherapists have told me they want to work hand in hand with physical therapists, but wish the latter to operate under a unique title, separate from their own. As Senator Henry observed, the world professional body wants the title protected for one profession, which is the physiotherapist. Physical therapists, as we know them, deal more often with massage therapies than sprains and breaks. One will always find a physiotherapist working in a hospital setting, but this is not the case with physical therapists, as we know them. I have used the term "as we know them" more than once because in the United Kingdom, Northern Ireland, Europe and the United States, a physiotherapist is called a physical therapist but there is a significant difference between the two professions in this jurisdiction.

As we pointed out in the House last week, we do not wish to do damage to any profession, nor do we want to deprive any professionals of work. This Bill is vital for the protection of the public, however, in ensuring there is no confusion regarding the two professions. I will be pushing for the protection of both titles for one profession.

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