Vol. 573 No. 5
136 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children the assistance available for a person (details supplied) who is commencing private orthodontic treatment; and if there is financial assistance available for this person's family towards the costs of treatment. [25921/03]
As the Deputy is aware, responsibility for the provision of orthodontic treatment for eligible persons in County Mayo rests with the Western Health Board. My Department has asked the chief executive officer to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and to reply to him directly. There is currently no mechanism for reimbursing costs of orthodontic treatment received independently of health boards. However, tax relief is available in respect of such treatment costs.
137 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children the orthodontic work which has been carried out for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; and when the health board expects to start the treatment that is urgently needed on this person. [25937/03]
Responsibility for the provision of orthodontic treatment for eligible persons in County Mayo rests with the Western Health Board. My Department has asked the chief executive officer to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and to reply to him directly.
