Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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Question 60: To ask the Minister for Health and Children her views on having a national study on total fluoride intake in the population; if she will do this under section 6 of the fluoridation Act; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11995/07]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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The Irish Expert Body on Fluorides and Health (Expert Body) 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 report to the Minister on matters of concern on request or on its own initiative.

I have asked my officials to refer this matter to the Expert Body for its consideration. The Body is scheduled to meet in plenary session on 25 April next. The Expert Body will advise me on the outcome of its consideration.