asked the Minister for Health if he has any plans to implement the submissions made by the Dental Council on the establishment of dental auxiliaries in the dental service.
Written Answers. - Dental Service.
170.
The Dental Council, in consultation with my Department, is at present finalising a scheme for the establishment of a class of dental hygienist under the provisions of the Dentists Act, 1985. Also, I have asked the Dental Council to carry out an objective assessment of the need for the establishment of a class of denturist, that is a type of technician who would be qualified to supply dentures direct to the public, and this assessment is being undertaken at present by a sub-group of the council. I await their recommendations which I will respond to quickly.