John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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Question 416: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that children who do not attend public national schools are not entitled to free dental or free optical care, despite the fact that they are covered under the school doctor scheme for immunisations; the action she will take to rectify this inequality in regard to these children; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9843/07]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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The statutory position governing the eligibility of children to dental treatment under the Health Service Executive (HSE) service is Section 66 of the Health Act, 1970. Furthermore, in relation to dental services for children, the Health (Amendment) Act 1994 and the Health (Dental Services for Children) Regulations, 2000 (S.I. No. 248 of 2000) also apply. Responsibility for delivery of health services is a matter for the HSE.

The Irish Medicines Board (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 2006, contains provision for the amendment of Section 66 of the Health Act, 1970 to provide for a health examination and treatment service for pupils attending any primary school. The Irish Medicines Board (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 2006, also contains provision for the amendment of the Health (Amendment) Act, 1994 to provide dental health services to children attending any primary school. My officials are currently in discussion with the Health Service Executive with a view to ensuring an early commencement to the relevant sections of the Act.