Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
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Question 1282: To ask the Minister for Health if he will cease the fluoridation of drinking water until the Department of Health can provide evidence to demonstrate that the silica fluoride compounds used for water fluoridation have been tested for human safety and environmental toxicity in accordance with international and EU law; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18417/12]

Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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The Health (Fluoridation of Water Supplies) Act, 1960 provides for the fluoridation of public piped water supplies. This is achieved through the addition of hydrofluorosilicic acid (HFSA) to the water. The complete and rapid reaction between HFSA and water produces hydrogen ions (which are removed through a process called buffering), silica (sand) and fluoride ions. Consumers do not come into contact with HFSA as water from the tap contains fluoride, not HFSA or fluorosilicates. The balance of scientific evidence worldwide confirms that water fluoridation, at the optimal level, does not cause any ill effects and continues to be safe and effective in protecting the oral health of all age groups. There are no plans to discontinue the policy of fluoridation of public water supplies, which continues to make an effective contribution to oral health in Ireland.