Rory O'Hanlon
Question:194 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Minister for Health when he proposes to extend the dental service to children between the ages of 12 and 16 years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16286/96]
Vol. 469 No. 1
194 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Minister for Health when he proposes to extend the dental service to children between the ages of 12 and 16 years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16286/96]
Limerick East): The dental health action plan provides for the extension of eligibility for dental services to children up to 16 years of age. I am implementing the action plan on a phased basis and I have already extended eligibility for dental services to children after they leave national school up to their fourteenth birthday. In addition, emergency dental treatment for the relief of pain is currently available to children aged 14 years and over who are dependants of medical card holders.