asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that there are numerous applications for free dentures from those in the lower income group in County Wexford; and whether the Wexford County Council have a dental scheme sufficient to enable them to supply the dentures.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Wexford Dental Scheme.
I am aware that many applications for the provision of dentures have been made to Wexford County Council by persons in the lower income group. Dental services for that group are made available at one clinic a week at the County Hospital and one at New Ross—for extractions only, dentures not being provided so far.
Existing staffs and services are not adequate to provide a fully comprehensive dental service and I am advised that in such circumstances it is preferable to give priority to services for school children. Health authorities have been informed accordingly. I understand that Wexford County Council, in common with health authorities elsewhere, have, up to the present, been concentrating on improving the services for children.