Nicky McFadden (Fine Gael)

This is a retrograde step. People pay PRSI and this was a benefit to that payment. My aunt went around schools with mouthwash before water was fluoridated. We suffered from tooth decay in this country many years ago. This is a backward step that will backfire on us in years to come, because we will have to pay more as a result.

I welcome the fact the Minister has not got rid of one annual check up. However, what is the point in having one annual check up when one cannot have a free scale and polish, filling, extraction and so on? Some 91,000 dentures were paid for last year, but that scheme is now being abolished. Many people will be discommoded because of this. We have had a very good service and our dentists have provided good value for money with this scheme. Oral health is a vital part of our well being. All sorts of serious diseases can transpire due to bad oral health. This is a draconian move.

I wonder how people will be able to pay to visit their dentist. If they are being cut at every other angle, they will not have the money to pay for dental treatment. That will be far down the pecking order when it comes to heat and food.