Deirdre Clune (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 424: To ask the Minister for Social Protection the long-term health effects of the withdrawal of the dental and optical benefit schemes; the long term cost of these health effects to the State; if any cost benefit analysis was carried out and if these issues were considered before dental and optical benefits were withdrawn; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25581/10]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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The optical and dental benefit schemes have not been withdrawn. The current budgetary position necessitated the changes made to social welfare benefits, including treatment benefits, in Budget 2010. From 1st January 2010, treatments available under the optical and dental elements of the scheme are limited to the free examination. There has been no change to the medical appliances element of the scheme. Over 2 million PRSI contributors are eligible for the free dental and optical examination and medical appliance benefit in 2010.

Current trends in 2010 indicate that by year end up to 300,000 people will opt to avail of the free dental examination, and a further 150,000 will receive a free optical examination. The annual free dental examination has been retained in order to encourage people to continue attending for checkups and help address the concerns expressed about the general dental health of the public. Regular dental examination can detect health issues and inform patients of any urgent dental treatment they may require.

Some 210,000 customers who had applied for approval to commence treatment prior to 31st December, either directly to the Department or through their practitioners, will receive the full range of dental and optical treatments available under the schemes prior to 1st January 2010. There is also evidence that increased competition in the market is having an effect on price. Shortly after the announcement of the changes to the scheme, for example, one major dental chain announced a price cut of 30%, and the Irish Dental Association subsequently announced that its members would either freeze or reduce their prices. Developments such as these are to be welcomed as they will make treatment more affordable for all consumers.

Emmet Stagg (Kildare North, Labour)
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Question 425: To ask the Minister for Social Protection the reason for the delay in sanctioning rent allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare. [25656/10]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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Due to staff action currently being taken in the HSE, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)
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Question 426: To ask the Minister for Social Protection the reason a person (details supplied) in County Kildare was refused an exceptional needs payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25681/10]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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Due to staff action currently being taken in the HSE, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.