Vol. 489 No. 6
674 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will establish training links with the Dublin Dental Hospital in view of the need for proper postgraduate training and education for those providing orthodontic services for the Eastern Health Board region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8590/98]
721 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a link cannot be established between the Western Health Board orthodontic group and the Dublin Dental Hospital which would ensure proper postgraduate training and education for the staff who provide orthodontic treatment in the Western Health Board Region (details supplied). [8869/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 674 and 721 together.
I understand the Department of Health and Children has commenced discussions with the chief executive officer of the Eastern Health Board concerning the role of the Dublin Dental Hospital and School in the provision of training in orthodontics for health board staff and that officials of that Department have also met representatives of the Irish Consultants Orthodontists' Group to hear their views on postgraduate training requirements in orthodontics. Officials of that Department have also met with the Dublin Dental Hospital and School on this issue.
I further understand that the Orthodontic Review Group established by the health boards has examined issues in relation to training in orthodontics and will include recommendations in its report. This group, which includes health board consultant orthodontists, is due to report to the chief executive officers of the health boards in the near future.
Following these developments my colleague, the Minister for Health and Children, has indicated that he will, as necessary, consult with me to ensure that adequate postgraduate training programmes are provided.
