Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
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Question 157: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that dentists are refusing to treat long-standing patients once they turn 70 and receive a medical card as part of GMS scheme, thereby forcing them to either pay for treatment they are entitled to or to find an alternative dentist; the number of dentists in the Dublin region who are refusing to participate in the GMS scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28202/07]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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Persons aged seventy years and over are automatically entitled to a medical card irrespective of means. These medical card holders are entitled to, among other things, a range of dental services under the Dental Treatment Services Scheme (DTSS) from participating dentists holding contracts with the Health Service Executive (HSE). Not all dentists hold DTSS contracts, as they may not wish to provide services under the Scheme.

Since the DTSS Review Group was established in May, 2006, to undertake a comprehensive review of Primary Care Oral Health Services, 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. In regard to the Deputy's question concerning the number of dentists in the Dublin region who are refusing to participate in the DTSS, I have asked the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the HSE to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.