John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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Question 199: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if, in view of the latest study from the Harvard School of Dental Health which found an increased cancer risk in children due to water fluoridation, she will review the Government's policy of water fluoridation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22141/05]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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The study referred to by the Deputy is an unpublished student dissertation and is not possible to comment on unpublished research. However, I am informed that a number of peer reviewed published studies have shown no evidence of a link between water fluoridation and cancer.

The Irish expert body on fluorides and health held its inaugural meeting in April 2004. The terms of reference of the expert body are: to oversee the implementation of the recommendations of the forum on fluoridation; to advise the Minister and evaluate ongoing research, including new emerging issues, on all aspects of fluoride and its delivery methods as an established health technology and as required; and to report to the Minister on matters of concern at his/her request or on its own initiative. Should any peer reviewed research be published which indicates any harmful effects of fluoridation, I will be happy to refer it to the Irish expert body on fluorides and health for its advice as to any necessary action.