Camillus Glynn (Fianna Fail)

I strongly support the Bill. It is long overdue. Coming from a profession, I am aware as are most Members, that it is imperative to protect members of different professions. That is why this Bill is so important. It is also important that other groups may be taken on board since this is enabling legislation. That is very significant.

I had discussions with the physical therapists. They want to be a stand alone profession. It is important to appreciate what has been sought by the Department. I take on board what Senator Browne said about clarification being sought. I believe that in time the merits of this legislation will be borne out. The timing of the Bill is good. It has received great attention from all sides of the House. All the contributors gave it serious consideration, not just on Report Stage, but also on Committee and Second Stages. It is one of the most important Bills to come before the Seanad since I became a Member. I look forward to the Bill's enactment.

It is outrageous that people may put up plaques claiming to be something they are not. There is the horrendous situation pertaining to the Killaloe clinic and with people practising alternative medicine. That is a matter for another day and something in which I have an abiding interest on behalf of the public. This is really a consumer issue that exists due to a legislative void. I exhort all sides of the House to ensure that corrective action is taken sooner rather than later.