Vol. 525 No. 2
126 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will request the Competition Authority to look at the issue of dental fees being charged, particularly in view of the significant difference between fees charged by dentists here and those in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24554/00]
My Department has made approaches to the Competition Authority, most recently in 1997, concerning the apparent cost differential of similar dental treatment obtained privately in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. My Department has also commissioned a study to establish the facts of the situation and the factors which may be underlying the apparent cost differential. On completion of this study I will be in a position to consider whether a further approach to the Competition Authority is appropriate.
