Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 6 May 2021
182. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Health if he plans to engage with an association (details supplied) in collective bargaining as the representative group of dentists in the same way that he engages with other professional representative groups and trade unions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23383/21]
View answer238. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health if a framework agreement has been negotiated between his Department and an association (details supplied) to allow the association to represent its members; the status of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23564/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 182 and 238 together.
I have given a commitment to the dental profession and to the public for a review of the Dental Treatment Services Scheme, in keeping with Smile agus Sláinte, the National Oral Health Policy.
I am anxious to ensure that there are no barriers to engagement between the Department and the Irish Dental Association (IDA) in this regard. I am aware of the IDA's concerns about its collective bargaining rights and I have asked officials in my Department to engage with the organisation on his matter.
