Fergal Browne (Fine Gael)

Degree status was only awarded to physiotherapy programmes in the late 1980s while physical therapists can now undertake masters degree programmes. We do not want to disadvantage either of the two existing professions of physiotherapists and physical therapists. We should not introduce legislation that would do that but allow the two to coexist and recognise that they provide similar but distinct services drawing on different expertise. That is the purpose of my amendment, and I hope that the Minister accepts it. If he does not, he will create an awful mess for himself and the Department. Now is the time to act, before the legislation reaches the Dáil.

We debated this matter at length on Committee Stage and the Minister of State, Deputy Tim O'Malley, gave a clear commitment that he would speak to the two groups involved and try to produce a suitable form of words. That is what we seek at this point. I hope that the Minister of State will be able to accept my amendment, which has been tabled in good faith.