Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
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Question 124: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the progress made in preparing a report on transport needs within the health services as promised to the Public Accounts Committee in 2006; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29958/07]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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The HSE is currently undertaking a national review of the transport needs of persons who fall within the eligibility criteria. This review will provide guidance for the future direction and management of patient transport requirements and the models of delivery required. My Department is advised that the Health Service Executive is also currently engaged with other stakeholders, including the Departments of Health and Children, Transport and Community Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs in examining the transport requirements of persons, other than those who require emergency transport by ambulance.

As operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services is a matter for the Health Service Executive and funding for all health services, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy in this matter.

Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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Question 126: To ask the Minister for Health and Children her views regarding the provision of teeth whitening services in beauty salons which do not have a dentist on the premises; if this is against the law; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29990/07]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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Under the European Communities (Cosmetic Products) Regulations (S.I. No. 870 of 2004) tooth whitening products containing up to 0.1% hydrogen peroxide present or released are permitted for general sale. Products containing above this limit may not be placed on the market.

The view of the European Union Scientific Committee on Consumer Products (SCCP) was sought on the possibility of increasing the limit for hydrogen peroxide present or released taking into account the various products available on the market.

The SCCP's opinion was that the use of tooth whitening products up to 0.1% hydrogen peroxide is safe. The use of tooth whitening products containing >0.1% to 6.0% hydrogen peroxide is considered safe after consultation with and approval of the consumer's dentist.

The process of updating legislation regulating tooth-whitening products is still ongoing. Until a decision is reached existing legislation applies.