Brendan Ryan (Labour)

I move amendment No. 2:

In page 9, to delete line 9 and substitute the following:

"(g) physiotherapist or physical therapist".

I am not sure amendment No. 32 is consequential as the amendments are variations on the same thing. Senator Browne's amendment is a more precise expression of what I intended to achieve with amendment No. 2. We have been intensively lobbied since Committee Stage by the college which provides training in what is described as physical therapy. I have no way of adjudicating on the matter, but I am considerably unhappy with terms being used, for whatever reason, that to an inattentive observer sound like the same thing. If we attempt to regulate physiotherapy and leave something called physical therapy unregulated, we are in grave danger of confusing people.

We have ample evidence that poorly used language causes confusion and it is unforgivable in legislation. It is impossible to believe that two separate professions of physiotherapy and physical therapy can operate jointly without great public confusion. The objective of my amendment was to state that the occupations of physiotherapist and physical therapist should be defined as meaning the same and should be regulated according to the regulations in this Bill as amended. However, I believe that is better expressed in Senator Browne's amendment.

I moved the amendment because I wish to hear the Minister of State's reply. I will then consider my position.