Jennifer Carroll MacNeill (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Nolan for highlighting this important issue. It is correct to say we are struggling with having enough dentists, both on the public side and, more broadly, to meet the need, particularly the developmental checks that are so important. While I am not aware of the specific case in Offaly, I would be glad if the Deputy might forward me the information so that I can be better informed. I have met initially in respect of this significant issue. There are a number of different new training programmes, especially the specific training programme the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland is opening at Connolly Hospital Blanchardstown which will be used to both train and treat at the same time. We have to use every lever we can to maximise dental services, particularly for children with their developmental checks. I would appreciate it if the Deputy would send me those details.

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