Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 28 Mar 2001

Vol. 533 No. 4

Written Answers. - School Dental Service.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

121 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason there is no appeal mechanism available to parents of primary school going children where a dentist/orthodontist who visited the national school decided no further action was necessary despite protestations to the contrary by the child's parents (details supplied); if another examination can be carried out by another dentist or orthodontist; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9142/01]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

The provision of orthodontic services to eligible persons in County Galway is in the first instance the statutory responsibility of the Western Health Board. In 1985, my Department issued guidelines to health boards on the criteria applicable in assessing need for specialist orthodontic treatment. The guidelines are based on the degree of handicap and severity of malocclusion which prioritises need for treatment.

I have asked the chief executive officer of that board to investigate the position in relation to this case and to reply directly to the Deputy as a matter of urgency.