andMr. Bruton asked the Minister for Health the number of eligible patients awaiting dental treatment in County Meath.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Meath Dental Service.
27.
Three thousand eight hundred and fifty people are listed as awaiting dental attention in County Meath.
Is the Minister not aware of complaints made by people in County Meath and that there are a number of positions for dental surgeon in the North Eastern Health Board vacant at present?
We have authorised a new grading structure for dentists' salaries and I expect this will improve the filling of the positions.
How many children have been referred for orthodontic treatment in County Meath and how many were treated this year?
If the Deputy wants to put a question down he will get his answer.
Orthodontics is part of dental treatment. The Minister may not be aware of that.
The Deputy is aware that I have authorised the appointment of five additional orthodontists who have improved the service in that area.
County Meath?
One of these will be in the Eastern Health Board area and will arrange the necessary back-up and services for orthodontic treatment.
Meath is not in the Eastern Health Board area. The Eastern Health Board are looking after Tralee and the Eastern Health Board will look after the country. It is no wonder the Minister cannot find his way. He does not have to at the moment because a fellow is bringing him.
The person dealing with the Eastern Health Board will deal with that board as well.
The North-Eastern Health Board, is that right?
He will deal with them both.
It operates in Kells.
The remaining questions will appear on the Order Paper for the next sitting day.