James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for raising this issue as this discussion, in itself, helps raise awareness. I, too, am concerned not only about this case, which involves clinical dental technicians and the provision of dentures, but about other areas where there is confusion, particularly in respect of people who describe themselves as counsellors. While some counsellors have excellent training, others may have done a course over six weekends, which is not the same thing. It is always a matter of concern to a general practitioner to ensure the person to whom he or she refers patients is suitably qualified. The same applies in respect of dentists. In addition to 15 dental technicians, many dentists can also fulfil requirements in this area and more are being trained.

The Deputy asked me specifically to outline what is being done about this matter. The Dental Council will refer complaints involving a risk to public safety to the Garda for investigation and prosecution. It has also published the register of clinical technicians on its website to enable people to ascertain whether the person they are attending is a bone fide, properly qualified, registered clinical dental technician.

This evening's debate is important because we need to disseminate information on this issue. I concur with the Deputy that we must protect members of the public from people who are not properly qualified and are passing themselves off as qualified as such persons are unable to render the services patients deserve.

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