Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)

I do not speak for the Irish Dental Association and, as with Senator Norris, I am not particularly concerned about the diminution of dentists' income. The important point is the effect of the measure on patients and dental and oral hygiene. The Minister is of a generation when dentists visited schools, although in Cork we went to City Hall. As Senator McFadden pointed out, by restricting treatment this measure is regressive and retrograde.

I seek clarity on one matter. Subsection 2 states: "The amendment effected by subsection (1) shall not apply to any treatment or benefit approved on or before 31 December 2009 pursuant to and in accordance with section 138 and regulations made under it". Must a patient obtain approval from the Department or from the dentist providing the treatment before treatment can commence? As the Minister is aware, some dental treatments are completed over a protracted period. If a person commences a course of treatment on or before 31 December 2009 and it extends into 2010, will the new regulations apply? This question may appear basic but I have received several telephone inquiries about the issue.

I am concerned that the regulations governing dental treatment are being changed. The briefing note provided by the Irish Dental Association includes a detailed and comprehensive analysis of the number of people who have availed of various treatments. I will not repeat the figures cited by Senator Norris. Given the change in diet, including the increase in sugar consumption, of which I am as guilty as anyone else, people must be allowed to avail of dental services. What is the purpose of PRSI if we cannot avail of these benefits?

Many fine dentists who receive money under the scheme will be affected by the measure. Has the Minister considered what will be the knock on effects of restricting the scheme in terms of waiting lists for dental services?