Dental Services Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 November 2014

Tuesday, 18 November 2014

Questions (430, 431)

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

430. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Health his position on bringing a new oral health strategy swiftly forward to update his Department’s policy on oral health. [44254/14]

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Question:

431. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Health his plans for the production and implementation of a national oral health strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44258/14]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Health

I propose to take Questions Nos. 430 and 431 together.

The Department of Health is currently developing a new oral health policy. This is a three year project which commenced in 2014 and is led by the Chief Dental Officer.

The project will have three key parts. The first is a needs assessment, which will inform how new services should be provided. The second part will be a review of resources. Thirdly, there will be consultation with stakeholders, including professional groups and the public, on new ways of delivering oral health services.

The emphasis on prevention rather than intervention is a cornerstone of this policy development. The project is prioritising older adults in the first instance.