Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent)

I hear what the Senator is saying but it is my understanding that the Department of Health is currently conducting a scoping exercise and skills assessment across the oral healthcare sector, which specifically includes dental hygienists. This will form the foundation for future policy and programme development. As part of this broader review, the Dental Council has submitted revised scopes of practice that propose expanding the role of dental hygienists. If adopted, this would require corresponding updates to current education and training provision.

I assure both Senators that the Government is committed to responding proactively to manage future workforce requirements, including in respect of dental hygienists, dentists and workers required in the oral healthcare sector. I will speak to the senior Minister when I meet him tomorrow about the specific points the Senators raised today.