asked the Minister for Health the steps he intends to take to provide a proper orthodontic service in the Counties of Sligo and Leitrim, if he is aware that a huge waiting list exists for treatment at present and that children are being refused entry onto that waiting list; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Counties Sligo and Leitrim Orthodontic Services.
148.
At present approximately 600 persons in Counties Sligo and Leitrim are undergoing courses of orthodontic treatment provided through the North Western Health Board while a further 165 are on the waiting list. The situation in relation to the availability of orthodontic treatment in Counties Sligo and Leitrim is, therefore, regarded as satisfactory at present. The health board is endeavouring to recruit a full time consultant orthodontist and, if successful, this will further improve the situation in the North Western Health Board area.