I wish to raise with the Minister the case of a young girl who has been waiting seven years for orthodontic treatment and to get a commitment as to when she will receive it.
In December 1994 the young girl in question was referred as a category II patient and deemed eligible for orthodontic treatment. The parents were informed in 1999 that she had been overlooked for an appointment date and that all efforts would be made to correct the situation. No date for an appointment has been given. A great deal of work has been done trying to persuade the authorities to provide the service, but to no avail. The parents are unable to ascertain a date for an appointment and are frequently told, when they make contact with those in the service, that there is a shortage of specialists providing orthodontic treatment. This situation is unsatisfactory.
This young girl was identified at eight years of age as eligible for treatment. She is now 16 years old and has not received treatment. This is a matter of great distress and embarrassment to her. She is now in her teens and this issue will become even more embarrassing when she reaches the age where she wishes to socialise with friends. I am seeking a commitment from the Minister that this girl will be provided with a specific date for an appointment for treatment.
In the wider context, will the Minister ensure adequate funding is put in place to ensure salaries of sufficient level are available to attract people to this position. We must provide an adequate service for children who require orthodontic treatment. Children are no longer considered eligible for such treatment on reaching 16 years of age. Surely, treatment should be provided at the earliest possible opportunity. With the coffers full of money and the European Union advising us to spend it wisely in areas of greatest need, this is one area which requires immediate funding.