GOC strikes off 464 names from register

The General Optical Council (GOC) has removed 464 registrants who failed to renew their registration for 2009-10 from the Opticians Register.

The total removed comprises 183 optometrists, 191 dispensing opticians and 90 bodies corporate.

GOC registrar and chief executive, Dian Taylor reiterated that registration was critical to public protection, and therefore should not be taken lightly by registrants.

'Clearly, the majority of opticians are aware of the importance of maintaining their registration. However, those who have been removed must apply for restoration immediately if they wish to continue working.

'We have alerted employers, primary care organisations and professional bodies to the list of those registrants who are no longer eligible to practise,' she said.