Warning over regulation of complementary therapists

Strict and robust self-regulation is needed to ensure the safety of Irish people using complementary therapies.

A new report found complementary practitioners of all ranges need to be brought together to set standards and help the public to choose therapies safely and wisely.

The working group on the regulation of complementary therapists revealed that compared to other countries Ireland is at an early stage of forming associations and federations to govern the sector.

It also admitted it is hard to flush out rogue practitioners, some who have made people’s lives a misery.

A new information guide launched today by Health Minister Mary Harney, focuses on the questions people should ask before seeking complementary therapy.

“Complementary therapy is widely available,” she said.

“We hope before anyone considers it they talk to their general practitioner and read this leaflet. We all have to take responsibility for our actions.

“There is a lot of confusion amongst the public. We want to empower the public to make decisions over their own health.”

Ms Harney told the practitioners at the launch there were varying degrees of education and experience, with highly educated therapists with many years experience getting angry that others claim to be qualified after just weekend of training.

“We have to make sure there is consistency and appropriate training.”

It is believed there are 2,000 complementary therapists working in Ireland.

Among the recommendations by the working group they call for:

:: statutory regulation for herbalists, acupuncturists and traditional Chinese medicine practitioners

:: voluntary self regulation among other groups

:: the publication of an up-to-date information booklet

:: the setting up of a forum between complimentary and conventional medical sectors.

The Tánaiste also revealed she would be shortly signing a statutory instrument to ensure the regulation of traditional herbal medicines.

Teri Garvey, working group chair, said no reputable therapist would ever tell someone not to see a doctor or claim to cure an illness or condition.

She also warned rogue and sham practitioners – some who have recently appeared in the media – are usually not qualified, qualified many years ago or do not belong to any organisation.

She said: “We are looking to ensure the public know the sort of questions to ask so they know the person is qualified and accredited."