Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 July 2013
220. Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Health if he will provide an update on the forthcoming review of the Dental Act 1985, which will identify the regulatory and other reforms required in the dental health professions; the progress that has been made to date on this issue; if consultations have been held to date with relevant stakeholders; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32411/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraA public consultation on new legislation to replace the Dentist Act, 1985 which legislates for the regulation of dentists in Ireland, is currently underway by my Department. This 7 week consultation began on 10th June 2013 and will conclude on 26th July 2013. Members of the public and interested stakeholders are invited to submit views, interests and concerns on key issues relating to the development of the new legislation. The outcome of the consultation will inform the drafting of Heads of Bill, as well as informing the completion of a Regulatory Impact Analysis which will be carried out by my Department.
The proposed new legislation will form part of a suite of legislative instruments to ensure greater accountability of all professions within the health care service. The need for clear and comprehensive regulatory governance in all healthcare professions, which has already been achieved in the Health and Social Care Professionals Act, 2005; the Medical Practitioners Act, 2007; the Pharmacy Act, 2007; and the Nurses and Midwives Act, 2011 will also be provided for in new legislation regulating the dental profession. The protection of the public is the main objective of the proposed new legislation.
