John Gormley
Question:212 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Health and Children the way in which the levels of fluoride intake are monitored; the way in which this intake is controlled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23162/99]
Written Answers. - Fluoridation Programmes.
It has been determined by validated reputable scientific research what the optimal level(s) of fluoride intake should be for humans under differing circumstances, for example, geographically and climatically. The principal method for ensuring optimal levels of fluoride intake is by the control of the levels of fluoride in public piped water supply systems, which are monitored on a regular ongoing basis. The other principal source of fluoride is toothpaste which is clearly not for ingestion.
John Gormley
Question:213 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Health and Children the guidelines used in the fluoridation of water supplies; the cost to the State; the administering bodies' and distribution costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23163/99]
The fluoridation of public piped water supplies is subject to the provisions of the Health (Fluoridation of Water Supplies) Act, 1960 (No 4 of 1960) and various regulations made under the Act. Health boards are responsible for fluoridation programmes within their areas. Accordingly, I have asked the chief executive officer of each board for the costs required by the Deputy. I will forward this information to the Deputy as soon as it is made available to me.
John Gormley
Question:214 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the fact that there have been studies on humans and animals and environmental studies carried out by world renowned toxicologists and scientists (details supplied) detailing the harmful effects of sodium fluoride on cells; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23164/99]
The work of individual scientists such as Dr. Somner are considered by panels of experts from many backgrounds. Such expert panels have repeatedly confirmed the safety of water fluoridation at 1ppm