Dan Boyle (Cork South Central, Green Party)
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Question 56: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the reason for the delay in implementing the 33 recommendations from the fluoridation forum; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41443/06]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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On foot of a recommendation from the Forum on Fluoridation, the Irish Expert Body on Fluorides and Health (known as the Expert Body) was set up in 2004 with specific terms of reference which include overseeing the implementation of the Forum recommendations.

The Expert Body produced an Action Plan in 2005. This outlines a strategic framework to aid and direct the Expert Body in identifying and implementing the necessary measures proposed by the Forum's recommendations. It will also ensure that the systems employed are sound, transparent, and meet the highest standards of Quality Assurance and Accountability. There has been no delay in the implementation of the Forum recommendations.

Specifically, I will be bringing regulations before the Houses of the Oireachtas shortly to reduce the levels of fluoride in the water supply, in line with the Forum's recommendations on this matter.