Vol. 511 No. 6
349 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs the cost to the social insurance fund in 1999 and the estimated cost in 2000 of the dental treatment benefits scheme; and if he has satisfied himself that insured persons and their families are being provided with adequate coverage. [25465/99]
Under the treatment benefits scheme, PRSI contributors and their dependent spouses can, subject to satisfying certain qualifying conditions, avail of a certain range of dental, optical and audiology services either free of charge or at a reduced cost.
Services under this scheme are only available to qualified PRSI contributors and dependent spouses. Children are not covered by the treatment benefits scheme. However, full dental services are available to all low-income families under the scheme operated by health boards. The further development of that scheme is a matter for the Minister for Health and Children.
In the case of dental benefits, I am satisfied that the extensive range of treatment available, including provision for regular dental examinations, is adequate to enable qualified persons to achieve and maintain a high standard of dental health.
An allocation of £35 million has been included in the abridged Estimates for 2000 for this scheme.
