Brendan Ryan (Labour)

As I said earlier I would not dream of pushing it, as I would be unable to raise the matter again later. I agree we have superb professionals in these areas. I had an unfortunate experience not many years ago when my son was in second year and a classmate of his committed suicide at the age of 14. Within an hour the Southern Health Board provided counsellors advising the teachers how to deal with the matter. The teachers and others told me the quality of service was first-class, professional and very good. Properly-trained and qualified professionals represent a significant asset in a crisis.

The failure of the profession to agree is the problem I want to address. I suggested a timeframe of 12 months as it is time the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children advised the group to either agree a framework of qualifications or let the Department write them on its behalf. We would not allow every quack to walk into the country and write prescriptions just because the medical profession could not agree on these matters. It is correct that we properly regulate who can practise medicine because such people are allowed to write prescriptions, which is the main factor that distinguishes medical practice from other areas of care for vulnerable people.

We must recognise that what was the case 50 years ago is quite different now. Many people are opting for other ways to get support for emotional and other distress, which may be better for them than a lifelong dependence on medication. I know of documented stories of poor counsellors creating lifelong dependence. While I do not mention any single individual, this is capable of being very cynically interpreted as it also represents an income stream for life. A misfortunate wretch might feel he or she must see a particular professional every week for the rest of his or her life and pay €40 or €50 each time. A person with 20 or 30 such clients would be on the pig's back for life.

While I may take issue with the Minister of State on this matter, I feel that if within 12 months the groups cannot agree on a format for qualifications, on behalf of the people of Ireland, the Minister should tell them what qualifications will allow people to call themselves therapists and counsellors. Given the disparity, unless we take action, I do not believe large chunks of that profession would take action.