Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 28 November 2013
179. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Health his plans to restore dental services at Virginia Health Centre, County Cavan which services a large number of primary schools in that area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51287/13]
View answerThe public health system currently provides a dental service to schoolchildren aged up to 16 years. The service is targeted at children in key classes at key stages in their development. Children are given dental examinations and any follow up treatment required at these stages. When required, emergency dental treatment is available to all children up to 16 years. In delivering the school dental programme it may be necessary to consolidate the services in locations where the highest standards may best be maintained. This allows the HSE Public Dental Service to target and treat the maximum number of children and to maintain essential services to patients with special needs.
The Health Service Executive has been asked to reply directly to the Deputy regarding the provision of dental services in Virginia, Co. Cavan.
