Vol. 522 No. 3
170 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of orthodontists in the public sector; if the figures are in line with international norms in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18755/00]
The provision of orthodontic services and the employment of orthodontists are the responsibility of the health boards. According to the information available to my Department a total of seven consultant orthodontists are employed by the health boards. The Midland Health Board avails of the services of private practitioners. In addition, nine den tists with post graduate qualifications in orthodontics are employed. A further 30 dentists provide orthodontic services in the regional orthodontic units under the overall direction and supervision of the consultant orthodontist.
A total of five consultant orthodontists are employed between the two dental hospitals and St. James's Hospital. My Department does not have international figures for orthodontists at this time.
