Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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Question 119: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when she expects to receive the report of the national expert group considering ways of strengthening the regulatory environment for alternative therapies; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20853/05]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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The national working group on the regulation of complementary therapists was established by my predecessor in May 2003 to advise, as indicated by the Deputy, on future measures for strengthening the regulatory environment for complementary therapists. The group was expected to report by the end of this year. In view of the urgency I attach to this matter, however, I asked that the work of the group be expedited. I understand that the report will now be finalised within the next few months.

My approach to the most appropriate framework to be put in place to regulate the activities of complementary therapists will be informed by the group's recommendations. In the meantime, my Department, in consultation with the relevant experts, is developing key messages for the guidance of the public in this matter.