Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)

I have been contacted by a number of dentists about this issue. The Minister referred to those on low incomes availing of this through the medical card system but not all dentists participate in the medical card scheme. There will be a huge waiting list in this area. I hope the Minister will address this.

A large number of people use the service. I think it is cost neutral because the industry is under pressure from Northern Ireland and eastern Europe, where many people go because expenses have become so high in the sector, like every other sector in our society.