Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 4 November 2014
589. Deputy Paul J. Connaughton asked the Minister for Health the dental screening services that are being given to primary school children in County Galway; the reason children are not being screened in second and fourth class when the Health Service Executive states that it provides dental screening to children in second, fourth and sixth classes; his plans to reinstate this service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40992/14]
View answerDental services for children up to 16 years of age and persons of all ages with special needs are provided by the Public Dental Service of the HSE through its dental clinics. All HSE dental clinics prioritise emergency care for children up to 16 years of age, treatment for special needs patients and screening of children aged from 11 to 13 years, including referral for orthodontic services where necessary. Other services, including screening of children 6 to 8 years, are provided but may be deferred in clinics where there is pressure on resources. I understand that the HSE has replied directly to the Deputy concerning services provided in County Galway.
