Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I wondered about that at the time. Of course, the time elapsed and it has a knock-on effect. Unfortunately, we were all under pressure at that time because of the lockdowns and Covid, and emergency upon emergency. It caused problems for us all. Regarding ongoing construction of an adequate dental policy nationwide, we are in a bit of difficulty. We only concentrate on one thing at a time. By the time the clock comes around again, there are many other issues confusing the screen, for want of a better description, and confusing everybody, to the extent that it is nearly impossible.

We have an increasing population, which is putting additional strain on the system. To get around to reviewing each cohort quickly, what is the best thing to do insofar as dentistry is concerned? I have been looking at the regional reductions pertaining to DTSS contract holders over the past four years: 45% to 50%, 30% to 40%, and 20% to 30%. I notice that the same locations crop up time and again. Could Mr. Hourihan shed some light on that? My constituency, Kildare North, and also Dublin North-West, Galway, Longford–Westmeath and Meath are all very densely populated areas and all have similar problems. In fairness to other regions, I will not mention them, but some fare better than others.