Fergal Browne (Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister and his officials on behalf of myself and my colleagues. This is an interesting Bill. I did not know about words such as "podiatrist" and "physical therapist" before it was introduced. I am somewhat wiser now. I am not so sure that I know all the answers, but I am clearer in my own mind about certain issues.

I thank the Minister of State and his colleague, the Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children, Deputy Tim O'Malley, for accepting the Fine Gael amendments on Committee Stage and for bringing them forward on Report Stage. That is the way politics should be, and it justifies our existence in the House. I have one main problem with the Bill, however, namely, the definition of "physical therapist" and the awarding of title. This is going to be a problem area.

The Minister of State said that he has been awaiting word from the physical therapists for the last six months. During one of the divisions I made a telephone call to ascertain the position. There appears to be some confusion. As far as they are concerned they received a letter from the Department, with seven points for clarification. They replied to the Department seeking clarification and they are awaiting word from the education body concerned as well. The education body had advised that their position was safe and they had a right to use the title. They have requested meetings with the Minister of State's Department. Perhaps he might investigate that situation again, to see what is happening. It would be amazing if the physical therapists, who came across to me as being members of a very professional body, which is effective in terms of lobbying, would allow six months to elapse without anything being done. Perhaps the Minister of State might indicate whether they have sought meetings with the Department, acknowledged receipt of the letter and the role played by the educational body.