Psychology group says bill puts children’s health at risk

CHILDREN’S health could be put at risk when around 1,000 unqualified people can practice psychology under a new bill passed by the Dáil last week, the Psychological Society of Ireland has warned.

The Health and Social Care Professionals Bill 2004 aims to protect the public from unqualified people, but a section allows those with just a primary degree to register, advertise and practice as psychologists.

The society’s president, Ronan Yore, said children with autism and those suffering from sexual abuse, eating disorders, depression and suicidal tendencies could be particularly vulnerable to unsafe practice.