Written answers

Wednesday, 26 April 2006

Department of Health and Children

Water Fluoridation

9:00 pm

Photo of Trevor SargentTrevor Sargent (Dublin North, Green Party)
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Question 85: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the latest studies from the United States which indicate that fluoride should not be added to water for a variety of health reasons; the reason she does not accept the findings of this report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15394/06]

Photo of Mary HarneyMary 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". The 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. This compares favourably with the incidence of dental decay in Northern Ireland, which has significantly higher rates of dental decay and which does not have fluoridated water supplies.

The research carried out shows that, at the levels of usage of fluoride in the Republic of Ireland's public water supply, there is no risk to health. Fluoridation of the water supply in Ireland is limited to a maximum of one part per million. In this regard, the WHO and the European Union have identified that fluoridation levels below 1.5 parts per million are acceptable.

The Irish Expert Body on Fluorides and Health was established in 2004. The terms of reference for 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 or her request or on its own initiative. The expert body is currently examining the reports referred to by the Deputy and will report on its findings to me when its deliberations have been completed.

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