Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 October 2005
131 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on a recent American study on the addition of fluoride to tap water which found that exposure to fluoride increased the risk of bone cancer in boys; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22316/05]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe study referred to by the Deputy is, in fact, an unpublished student dissertation. It is not possible to comment on unpublished research. However, I am informed that a number of peer reviewed published studies have shown no evidence of a link between water fluoridation and cancer.
The Irish expert body on fluorides and health held its inaugural meeting in April 2004. The terms of reference of the expert body are: to oversee the implementation of the recommendations of the forum on fluoridation; to advise the Minister and evaluate ongoing research — including new emerging issues — on all aspects of fluoride and its delivery methods as an established health technology and as required; to report to the Minister on matters of concern at his/her request or on its own initiative.
Should any peer reviewed research be published which indicates any harmful effects of fluoridation, I will be happy to refer it to the Irish expert body on fluorides and health for its advice as to any necessary action.
