Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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Question 214: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if it is the case that medical card holders may no longer have work done free of charge by their dentist; the reasons for this; and if she will immediately intervene to ensure that full entitlement is restored. [17840/07]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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The Dental Treatment Service Scheme (DTSS) provides for a range of dental services for adult medical card holders from participating dentists holding contracts with the Health Service Executive (HSE). The DTSS Review Group was established in May 2006 to undertake a comprehensive review of Primary Care Oral Health Services provided under the DTSS. Represented on the Review Group are the HSE, the Health Service Employers Agency, the Department of Health and Children, the Department of Social and Family Affairs, the Department of Finance and the Irish Dental Association (IDA). The Group is chaired by Mr. Finbar Flood.

Since the Group was established, a legal issue has arisen with regard to the Competition Act 2002 as it relates to the negotiation of professional fees. The issues involved are complex and my officials are working with the Attorney General's office to clarify the way forward. The existing contractual arrangements with private dental practitioners under the DTSS for the provision of dental services to eligible patients remain in place.