Deirdre Clune (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister of State. I am glad to have the opportunity to raise the issue of the regulation of practitioners in the health and social care area, particularly counsellors and psychotherapists. The Minister referred to this area when we discussed the Health and Social Care Professionals Bill in this House and in the other House. A point raised was that there is concern that two areas in particular are not regulated. For various reasons, be it financial, health or social pressures, more people are turning to these types of services. Most of the services provided are of an excellent standard but there is a need to regulate them and to ensure that would-be users can be confident that they can access quality professional services and that they will not be treated by so-called cowboys, particularly if they are in a vulnerable state.

I raise this issue because Behaviour & Attitudes published a survey this week carried out by the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy which revealed that 60% of Irish people now want to talk about issues. They believe that is an acceptable thing to do and they discuss it with their friends and relations. That has become a more common conversation. Some 80% of people believe the entire area should be regulated. The Minister of State would agree with that and would expect it.

I raise the issue because it arises regularly. People are concerned about it. Individuals who use these services are vulnerable. We do not want to aggravate their problems but rather ensure they get the best care possible. People expect the State would regulate in this area.