David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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Question 181: To ask the Minister for Health and Children her plans to establish a statutory register for dental nurses; if so, the details; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22109/07]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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The Dental Council is the statutory body responsible for the registration of dentists. Under Section 53 of the Dentists Act, 1985, the Council may establish schemes for the recognition of grades of auxiliary dental workers with the consent of the Minister for Health and Children.

The grade of dental nurse was created in 2001. The Council is responsible for maintaining the register of dental nurses and registration is voluntary. It would be a matter for the Council to submit an amendment to the dental nurse scheme if they consider it necessary.

On the 25th September last, I announced the research and development of a new National Oral Health Policy. This new oral health strategy will be undertaken by my Department in conjunction with the HSE. The development of the strategy will allow a critical examination of the many challenges and issues currently facing the dental sector in Ireland, including the provision of a revised regulatory regime culminating in a new Dentists Act. It is expected that the new National Oral Health Policy report will be available in Summer 2008.