The provision of orthodontic treatment to eligible persons and the maintenance of waiting lists in County Wicklow is the statutory responsibility of the Eastern Regional Health Authority.
The following information which was made available to me by the authority on 10 November 2000 shows the position in relation to waiting lists for assessment for orthodontic treatment in the Wicklow dental area: category 1, 31 and category 2, 1,351.
In addition, there are approximately 800 category 2 patients who have already been assessed and are awaiting treatment throughout the entire Eastern Regional Health Authority area.
A new regional orthodontic unit is being established at Loughlinstown. This unit is expected to be operational early in January next and will substantially enhance orthodontic services in the region.