asked the Minister for Health if he has noted the severe criticism of the dental service made at the recent meeting in Limerick of the Irish Dental Association; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dental Service.
13.
I am aware of the statements made at the meeting referred to by the Deputy. I was present at the association's annual dinner and I am sending the Deputy a copy of my address to the association on that occasion. It will be noted from the address that I acknowledged the existence of certain defects in the public dental service and possible ways of remedying them. I also indicated in my address that the profession should have the opportunity of discussing the improvement and future development of the dental service with officials of my Department.
Since the meeting, the Department have written to the president of the association inviting representatives of that body to attend a meeting in the Department to discuss the general matters referred to in my address. I expect that this meeting will be arranged soon. I should add that this meeting will take place on the 10th May.
In view of the assurance given to the Cork Hospital Board last week by the Minister for Education that the Government have now given the green light to the building of the new dental hospital in Cork, would the Minister use his influence with the Government to expedite the acceptance of a tender at the earliest possible date in view of the supreme importance of the issue?
That would be my desire but the Deputy will appreciate that that is a question that should be addressed to the Minister for Education who would have responsibility for the building of the dental training hospital in Cork.