The Minister for Health & Children, Ms Mary Harney on 2 July 2008 announced the commencement of certain provisions of the Medical Practitioners Act 2007 which will allow the new Medical Council to begin its work today 3 July 2008 and proceed with the election of its President and Vice-President (Medical Practitioners Act 2007 (Commencement) (No. 2) Order 2008). It will also begin the establishment of its governance structures and committees. Other provisions being brought into operation are those relating to processing of complaints concerning registered medical practitioners, including fitness to practise procedures and the imposition of sanctions. These newly commenced provisions mean that from now on the Fitness to Practise Committee will have lay members as a majority.

 

In order to meet today’s standards of openness, fitness to practise hearings will generally be held in public unless the Fitness to Practise Committee itself decides otherwise. In addition, a statutory basis is now in place for the Medical Council’s Health Committee, which will support doctors themselves when they are experiencing health problems.

 

The remaining sections of the legislation, including those relating to registration, medical education and training, and maintenance of professional competence will be commenced over the coming months.

 

Beauchamps' Healthcare Team are happy to provide an information/education session for hospitals/clinics to assist their staff in preparing for circumstances whereby staff may be called to give evidence at a Fitness to Practise Committee hearing.

  

Link to press release