Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 5 May 1992

Vol. 419 No. 1

Written Answers. - Orthodontic Services.

Ivor Callely

Question:

137 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the shortage of available consultant orthodontists and the increase in waiting lists for orthodontic treatment; the way in which he intends addressing this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Health (Dr. O'Connell)

A post of consultant orthodontist has been approved by my Department for each health board. Following improvements made by my Department in the salary and conditions of service attached to the post which make the post more attractive a number of health boards have now been successful in filling these posts through the Local Appointments Commission.

Health boards which have not yet been successful in making appointments are arranging to have the vacancies re-advertised or have made (or are making) alternative arrangements to provide consultant cover for the orthodontic services provided.

For the past few years my Department has provided additional funds to health boards specifically for the development of orthodontic services and this has resulted in a significant improvement in the services. The successful recruitment of consultants will further improve services.