Tim O'Malley (Limerick East, Progressive Democrats)

I thank the Senators who have raised this matter again. The question of the title "physical therapist" has consistently attracted attention during the passage of the Bill through the Oireachtas. For the physiotherapy profession, the title protected under the Bill is "physiotherapist". However, the Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists also wishes to have the title "physical therapist" protected for exclusive use by those professionals registered with the physiotherapists registration board established under the Bill. The society considers both titles to be interchangeable in an international context and believes there is a risk of confusion for the public if the title of physical therapist were not protected for use by physiotherapists. However, members of the Irish Association of Physical Therapists, who currently use the title in this country, have argued against such a protection and wish to retain the title for their own use.

As Senators have remarked, this is clearly a complex issue to which much attention has been given. The Tánaiste is of the view that matters must be resolved in a timely way. The way forward is to deal with protection of titles issues by regulation, as provided for in the Bill. In line with the provisions of section 95(3), the Tánaiste intends to consult with the physiotherapists registration board, on its establishment, and any organisations she considers appropriate in regard to prescribing the title of "physical therapist" for use by registrants of the physiotherapy profession. She would expect to make an early decision on the matter.

I understand the points made by Senators. It is not an easy issue. We were afraid competition problems would arise and that the Bill could lead to litigation, which no-one would want. The Tánaiste has considered the issue and feels this is the way forward.