Feargal Quinn (Independent)

During the debate on Second Stage I said that in the 1960s some people, who did not have the appropriate qualifications, called themselves "chemists". I do not know how that was solved but I am sure it was by an Act of the Oireachtas. In the 1970s I came across an architect who had no qualifications but put the title "architect" on the door, and I am sure that issue was solved internally or by legislation.

I accept it will be unfortunate for people who call themselves "physical therapist" if they are no longer allowed to do so unless they have the qualifications of a physiotherapist. However, given that in 92 countries the titles are interchangeable, we do not have the freedom to leave the title in doubt in the minds of members of the public. Therefore, if the purpose of the Bill is to protect the public, we have no choice but to grasp this opportunity and state forthrightly, as the position will be for people who call themselves "physical therapists", we cannot leave the public open to the danger of misunderstanding in this regard. The Minister of State must grasp this opportunity and provide that people may not call themselves "physical therapists" unless they are physiotherapists.