Niall Collins (Limerick County, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I have listened to the Deputy and colleagues in the Chamber and have taken onboard the points made. I assure the Deputy that addressing access to dental care, including for adult medical card holders, is a top priority for the Minister and the Government. The Minister made substantial additional investment in oral healthcare services both in 2022 and 2023. Fundamental reforms are also being progressed through the implementation of the national oral health policy, for which funding has been provided this year. The policy sets out the vision for the future of oral healthcare services. While it will take a number of years to bring to complete fruition, there will be an early and continued emphasis on addressing current access issues. The policy fundamentally aspires that all Irish people will have their own dental home where they build a life-long relationship with a local dental practice or practices of their choosing for continuity of care from birth to old age. The policy has two goals: to provide supports to enable every individual to achieve their personal best oral health; and to improve access to dental care in an equitable and sustainable manner, enabling vulnerable groups to improve their oral health. I am confident that by working together with the dental profession and all stakeholders, the goals of the policy will be met.

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