Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick East, Labour)
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Question 306: To ask the Minister for Health and Children her proposals for regulation and consumer protection in the area of cosmetic surgery and cosmetic procedures; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34107/07]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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Under the Medical Practitioners Act 1978, the Medical Council is charged with responsibility for the registration of medical practitioners and the regulation of their activities. Persons who avail of the services of doctors performing plastic surgery should endeavour to seek the services of reputable providers. When invasive procedures are being arranged, persons would be strongly advised to check that the services are provided by a medical practitioner who is appropriately registered with the Medical Council. In addition, before agreeing to undergo any procedure, persons should ascertain the level of follow-up medical support which will be available to them after the surgery has been completed.

Where a concern arises about the professional activity of a registered medical practitioner, the Medical Council has the power to investigate the circumstances of the complaint, and, if a prima facie case exists, to conduct an inquiry. Where a finding of professional misconduct or unfitness to practise is made against a doctor, the Council has the authority to suspend, limit or revoke the registration of that individual.

The Medical Practitioners Act 2007 provides for a clear compulsory requirement for registration for all medical practitioners, changes to the Fitness to Practise process and the introduction of a mandatory scheme for the maintenance of professional competence. These and other new provisions of the Act will afford greater protection to the public.