Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 110: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if she has assessed the scientific evidence on the merit of fluoridation of water supplies for general distribution; if she is satisfied that the existing levels of fluoridation in water supplies here are appropriate; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34483/07]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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The effectiveness of water fluoridation in preventing dental decay continues to be endorsed by a comprehensive range of international bodies including the World Health Organization, the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, the United States Public Health Service and the United States Surgeon General, the FDI World Dental Federation and the International Association for Dental Research. In addition, these bodies are also satisfied that ingestion of fluoride at optimal levels does not pose a threat to human health.

Following publication of the report of the Forum on Fluoridation in 2002 and on the advice of the Irish Expert Body on Fluorides and Health (Expert Body) on the findings of the report, revised Regulations were introduced, earlier this year, reducing the level of fluoride in piped public water supplies to between 0.6 parts per million (ppm) and 0.8 ppm.

I am satisfied, therefore, that fluoride in the concentrations used in our public water supplies poses no known medical problem for children or adults and should continue as an effective public health measure.