The Malta Independent 4 June 2025, Wednesday
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Association for Consumer Rights encourages ‘constructive dialogue’ over proposed legal amendments

Thursday, 11 July 2024, 18:16 Last update: about 12 months ago

The Association for Consumer Rights (ACR) said that it encourages constructive dialogue to ensure any legal amendments involving psychologists to uphold public safety and consumer choice

In response to the proposed amendment aimed at broadening the qualification criteria for psychologists, ACR Malta strongly encourages policymakers and the Malta Federation of Professional Associations and the Chamber of Psychologists to engage in constructive dialogue and ensure any legislative amendments not only safeguard the integrity of the profession but also protect consumers and public safety.

"The key areas which must be agreed on are: 1) High Standards: Any proposed changes must not dilute the rigorous standards currently in place. It is important that psychologists have the necessary training and qualifications to practice and uphold the profession's credibility and effectiveness. 2) Public Safety Risks: Ensuring that psychologists have comprehensive and specialized training is crucial for public safety. Any legislative changes must safeguard the rights of vulnerable persons seeking mental health care. 3) Professional Integrity: Maintaining high standards is essential for preserving the integrity of the psychology profession. Any proposed amendment should not erode these standards or diminish trust in psychological services and professionals.4) Protect consumer choice: The entry of appropriately qualified and experienced persons even if such qualifications or experience were obtained from overseas must be made legally permissible. In this way the consumers' right to choice would be protected and upheld."

The Association calls on policymakers to work with the Malta Federation of Professional Associations and the Chamber of Psychologists to engage in a thorough discussion and review the proposed amendments to ensure both accessibility to the profession and the maintenance of high standards. "We advocate for solutions that on the one hand address the need for more psychologists in Malta, the right of consumers to choice in services without compromising the quality of care provided to the public."

ACR Malta however favours amending the law to permit warranting persons who have obtained the necessary equivalent qualifications from educational Institutions other than University of Malta.  "In this way, the law will establish a fair legal playing-field for all suitably qualified persons. ACR also urges stakeholders concerned not to oppose amendments to the law as a way of keeping high fees through a closed shop system. As consumer representatives, we also ask to be included in government's consultation process on amendments to the laws relating to this issue."

 


 

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