Liam Twomey (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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Question 286: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on an article in a journal (details supplied) on water fluoridation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35635/05]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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Fluoridation of public water supplies as a public health measure is accepted as being one of the most effective methods of ensuring against tooth decay. The World Health Organisation, WHO, recommends fluoridation of public water supplies and has stated that fluoridation of water supplies, where possible, is the most effective public health measure for the prevention of dental decay. WHO has also stated that people of all ages, including the elderly, benefit from community water fluoridation.

The recently completed survey of oral health, covering the whole island of Ireland, shows that fluoridation of public water supplies continues to be a highly effective public health measure. It has contributed significantly to a major reduction in the incidence of dental decay in the Republic of Ireland. As the Deputy will be aware, the Irish expert body on fluorides and health was established in 2004 by the then Minister for Health and Children. The expert body held its inaugural meeting in April 2004 and its terms of reference are: to oversee the implementation of the recommendations of the forum on fluoridation; to advise the Minister and evaluate ongoing research, including 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 on request or on its own initiative. I have asked my officials to refer the article in question to the expert body for its consideration. The expert body will advise me on the outcome of its considerations.