Geraldine Feeney (Fianna Fail)

I thank the Minister for taking this Bill and commend her officials on the hard work they have done. Of all the recent legislation on medical issues, this Bill is probably the most sensitive.

Two areas of the Bill are worth mentioning. The certificate of good standing means people from outside the EU will no longer experience lengthy delays in having certificates sent from their countries of origin. It was wrong of us to require the certificates and it made matters difficult for the people who had to wait for them.

I am delighted the council has been given powers to prevent a person from practising in this country until he or she registers, which is in the interest in public safety. I look forward to the implementation of the Bill.