Vol. 518 No. 6
267 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Health and Children if the difficulties with regard to the provision of orthodontic treatment at St. James's Hospital, Dublin 8, will be resolved; when the hospital will resume orthodontic treatment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12335/00]
The provision of orthodontic treatment to eligible persons in St. James's Hospital is the statutory responsibility of the Eastern Regional Health Authority.
I have had inquiries made of that health authority. Difficulties were encountered in the latter part of 1999 and early 2000 in the regional orthodontic unit at St. James's Hospital which caused the cancellation of routine orthodontic appointments. These difficulties have been resolved and treatment has recommenced for the majority of patients and this is ongoing. However, there is a group of approximately 700 patients whose treatment could not be recommenced. The consultant orthodontist is currently reviewing these patients and is also involved in drawing up an action plan with a view to recommencing their treatment within an eight to ten week period.
