Dental Services Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 January 2014

Wednesday, 15 January 2014

Ceisteanna (850)

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

850. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health further to the Topical Issue debate of 18 December 2013, if he has received a response from the Health Service Executive; if he will now hold an independent investigation into all of the circumstances surrounding this case and its handling by HSE management; the steps taken to trace patients of both the public and private dental clinics involved; if he can reassure patients that there is no infection risk as a result of this practice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1257/14]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Health

An Expert Group established by the HSE investigated public health aspects of this case and determined that the risk of infection is miniscule. Given the low risk of infection the HSE considers that a look back/ patient notification exercise is not necessary. The HSE has referred the matter to the Dental Council. In the circumstances, it would not be appropriate for me to make any further comment.