asked the Minister for Social Welfare if, in view of the long dispute between his Department and the dentists, as a consequence of which many sufferers from dental defects are prevented from availing of the services under the existing Acts, he will arrange that persons qualified to receive dental benefits, but who now must pay their dentists privately, will be given a refund in respect of fees paid, to the extent to which they will be entitled to benefit when the dispute is resolved.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dental Benefits.
I am unable to accept the suggestions made by the Deputy. The dental profession is at the moment considering proposals made by me for the settlement of this dispute and any arrangements on the lines suggested would only tend to prolong the present situation.