Vol. 435 No. 6
104 Mr. E. Kenny asked the Minister for Health the current number of applicants for orthodontic treatment in the Western Health Board area; the average waiting period at present; the proposals, if any, he has to alleviate such waiting lists; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The waiting lists for orthodontic treatment in the Western Health Board area are maintained by the health board. I have referred the Deputy's inquiries in regard to the waiting lists to the chief executive officer of the health board for his immediate attention and direct reply to the Deputy.
There has been a considerable improvement in the orthodontic service provided by the Western Health Board since the successful recruitment by the board, earlier this year, of a consultant orthodontist.
I have made an additional allocation to the Western Health Board in 1993 specifically for the further development of its orthodontic services under the Programme for Government.
