Tim O'Malley (Limerick East, Progressive Democrats)

As I understand it, it has not been suggested that practitioners describing themselves as "physical therapists" are seeking to mislead the public. Rather a situation has arisen over a long period whereby a significant number of persons are currently practising in this State and earning a livelihood providing services to the public using the title "physical therapist", which in other countries would appear to be synonymous with the title "physiotherapist".

The imposition of a solution by means of a legislative amendment does not constitute a sustainable long-term solution to this issue. The range of possible solutions must be explored thoroughly between the relevant parties through a process of real engagement and focused consultation on a partnership basis. I am not convinced that there is sufficient evidence at this point to justify the strong legal measure that the proposed amendments would represent. It would pre-empt the resolution of a long-standing and complex issue that requires careful consideration of the rights and obligations of all parties involved.

The provisions of the Bill allow for protection of the titles in the future following further detailed examination of all relevant issues, allowing time for the representative bodies to come to a practical solution on a mutually agreed basis. The rights of existing practitioners must be respected. Reservation of the title "physical therapist" to physiotherapists could impact significantly on the livelihood of many physical therapists. There are several hundred people practising as physical therapists. A sustainable long-term solution is required which acknowledges this fact and protects the public.