Vol. 468 No. 4
164 Mr. Martin asked the Minister for Health if he has satisfied himself that there is free dental care for all primary school-going children in this country; and if he has satisfied himself that resources are adequate to meet such an objective. [15317/96]
Limerick East): Health boards have adopted a systematic, targeted approach to the provision of dental services to children at national school.
Children in selected classes in national school, usually second and sixth classes, are screened by the health board dental service, treatment need is identified and treatment is provided as necessary.
There is also an emphasis on preventive programmes e.g. fissure sealing treatment and on dental health education. Children who may have special dental needs are identified and, where necessary, called back for more frequent assessment and provision of treatment.
The targeted approach, as opposed to a demand led system, ensures the maximum use of resources and also ensures that all children in national school have equal access to the health board dental services.
Under the dental health action plan additional funding of £3 million is now being provided to health boards on an annual basis for the development of the childrens dental services.
I am satisfied that health boards have adequate resources to provide the service.
