Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
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Question 208: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if she will formulate a new public policy on childhood orthodontics in view of the unacceptable waiting times for children with serious dental problems in the greater Dublin and mid-east regions; and if she will make a statement on her policy on the matter following a report from the Health Service Executive on performance indicators in this area. [15395/08]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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My Department is currently developing a new National Oral Health Policy. This new oral health policy, the first such policy in thirteen years, is being undertaken in conjunction with the Health Service Executive. The development of this new national policy will allow a critical examination of the many challenges and issues currently facing the dental sector, including the delivery of orthodontic services to children. It is expected that the new National Oral Health Policy report will be available later this year.

In relation to performance indicators in this area, the Deputy's question relates to the funding, management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.