asked the Minister for Health if he is satisfied with the result of the water fluoridation scheme; and, if so, if he will consider extending it.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Water Fluoridation.
20.
The fluoridation of public piped water supplies is generally acknowledged to be the most effective measure to reduce the incidence of dental decay in the community. A long-term study of the effect of fluoridated water on children's teeth is being conducted by a research unit attached to University College, Cork. Meanwhile, more limited, surveys made in Cork and Dublin, some years after the commencement of fluoridation, have shown significant reductions in tooth decay in children in these areas.
108 water supplies, which serve the 1.5 million people in the cities and nearly all the major towns have already been fluoridated. A further 90 supplies, covering small centres, will be fluoridated within the next two to three years.