Mary Henry (Independent)

It is very relevant because it is to do with comparability of degrees and the fact that confusion can be caused if we are not careful in the matter. This is the problem here because one qualification involves a university degree whereas the other does not appear to be linked to any third level institution in this country.

On the adoption of a system of easily readable and comparable degrees, the document states:

Ministers strongly encouraged universities and other higher education institutions to take full advantage of existing national legislation and European tools aimed at facilitating academic and professional recognition of course units, degrees and other awards, so that citizens can effectively use their qualifications, competencies and skills throughout the European higher education area.

It is clear that this is not just so that they can move between educational institutions but in order that their employability will be the same. If we allow any confusion in this area, the situation will be serious.

The document went on to state with regard to the promotion of mobility that people should be able to move between different educational institutions and become involved in employment because their degrees are considered comparable. Will the Minister of State in his reply state what involvement he has had with the Department of Education and Science with regard to the Bologna process and the fact that we have done our utmost to ensure there is comparability of qualifications? We want a situation where this is achieved.

I cannot see the situation being helped by the sort of fuzziness being introduced in this Bill. Both professions are highly paid, but they have different entry standards. The physiotherapy degree is one of the most difficult to gain admittance to in our universities, but the entry requirements to get into physical therapy here are much lower. I suggest we make a clear distinction between the two professions. I am not implying there is anything wrong with physical therapists, but they should have a section of their own. The words "physical therapist" should apply only to those with the qualifications of physiotherapist to avoid confusion until we have a situation where we have a special section for physical therapists as qualifying in this country.