Joanna Tuffy (Labour)

I missed the previous discussion on this provision. Obviously, it was introduced for inclusion in this Bill in response to the recommendations in a report. However, it should have been dealt with in a separate Bill which could also have dealt with other issues relating to nurses or this provision. I agree with the points made by the other Senators. When something comes up the Government has a tendency to deal with it by including it in whatever legislation is going through the Houses that relates to it. Obviously this provision is related to the legislation before us but it could be suitably dealt with in a short Bill.

The Bill deals with things such as the definition of practitioners. How do nurses fit into those definitions? Are they now included in them or will that be dealt with separately? If they are acquiring this new role will training requirements for nurses be included in the regulations? Why is there only provision for emergency circumstances? It would be better if there was a straightforward power to prescribe that is not limited to particular circumstances but relates to particular medicines and certain types of nurses. I welcome the provision but I hope the Minister of State can answer my questions.