Minister announces legislation to govern massage therapists

Health and Community Services Minister Julie Bettney has announced legislation to govern the province's massage therapists. The legislation, which received second reading in the House of Assembly on Tuesday, November 20, will ensure that only qualified, regulated massage therapists practice in Newfoundland and Labrador. 

"Public protection is the single most important reason to establish this legislation," said Minister Bettney. "Without legislation, there is no way to adequately regulate this growing profession. In the past five years, the Newfoundland and Labrador Massage Therapists' Association has grown in membership by 600 per cent. However, there is currently no legislation requiring those practising massage therapy in this province to have certain credentials or adhere to specific standards."

Currently, membership in the NLMTA is voluntary. However, following the announcement of this legislation, all massage therapists practising in the province will be required to join. The association will ensure that its members adhere to standards of practice, carry professional liability insurance, continue their education, and abide by the association's constitution. Legislation will also ensure the association and the licensing board have the means to proceed with disciplinary actions should a massage therapist fail to practice within guidelines. 

"The NLMTA asked the provincial government for self-regulation status," said Minister Bettney. "The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is pleased to work with the NLMTA to ensure this service is provided by qualified therapists only."

Massage therapy is currently regulated in British Columbia and Ontario. Therapists in a number of other provinces are also lobbying for governing legislation.

Media contact: Carmel Turpin, Communications, (709) 729-1377.

2001 11 21                             9:50 a.m.