Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)
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Question 162: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if a comprehensive review of the provision of dental services under the medical card scheme has been completed; if she will make public the findings of such a review; the way the situation affects patients; the length of time this service has been affected by this problem; and when a proposed solution will be implemented. [28048/08]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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The Dental Treatment Services Scheme (DTSS) Review Group was established in May 2006 to undertake a comprehensive review of Primary Care Oral Health Services provided under the DTSS. Represented on the Review Group are the HSE, the HSE Employers Agency, the Department of Health and Children, the Department of Social and Family Affairs, the Department of Finance and the Irish Dental Association (IDA). The Group is chaired by Mr. Finbar Flood.

During the course of the review, based on legal advice made available to the HSE, an issue arose in relation to the Competition Act, 2002 and the collective negotiation of fees with the IDA. The HSE was advised that the coming together of the DTSS contractors under the auspices of the IDA to negotiate fees would constitute a breach of the Act. Officials in my Department are working with the Attorney General's office to clarify the way forward.

The existing contractual arrangements with private dental practitioners under the DTSS for the provision of dental services to eligible patients remain in place.