Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Independent)
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Question 204: To ask the Minister for Health and Children his plans to regulate the cosmetic surgery sector; the details of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13879/11]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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The Medical Practitioners Act 2007 provides for a clear compulsory requirement for registration for all medical practitioners, including cosmetic surgeons, who practise medicine in Ireland. Under the Act 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 cosmetic surgery should ideally discuss this decision in advance with their general practitioner and 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.

A Bill is in preparation to amend the Medical Practitioners Act 2007 to make it mandatory for all medical practitioners engaged in clinical practice to have adequate clinical indemnity cover in place. The new provisions will give power to the Medical Council to refuse to grant registration to a medical practitioner who fails to provide certification evidencing that s/he has appropriate medical indemnity cover. Further legislation to regulate this sector is being considered in the context of the development of legislative proposals for the licensing of health care providers.