Vol. 508 No. 3
237 Mr. Dukes asked the Minister for Health and Children if orthodontic treatment at St. James's Hospital is being delayed pending the appointment of an orthodontist; the plans, if any, he has to appoint an orthodontist to the hospital in the near future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19036/99]
The provision of orthodontic treatment for eligible persons in the Eastern Health Board area and the recruitment of orthodontists is the statutory responsibility of the Eastern Health Board in the first instance. I have had inquiries made of the Eastern Health Board. I understand that as a result of two full time dentists in the regional orthodontic unit at St. James's Hospital commencing job-sharing, a vacancy for a dental surgeon has arisen in the unit. The board will endeavour to advertise and fill this position as quickly as possible.
