Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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Question 184: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if her Department is carrying out an evaluation of the effects on dental health cutbacks to the dental treatment services scheme and the dental treatment benefit scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34209/10]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Independent)
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The Government's decision to limit the funding available to the Dental Treatment Services Scheme (DTSS) was made in view of the current position of the public finances. In consequence, the HSE introduced measures to contain DTSS expenditure at the 2008 level of approximately €63 million. Under the new measures the range of treatments available are being prioritised for adult medical card holders. The HSE will ensure that high risk groups and patients with greatest needs are prioritised. The HSE will also monitor the ongoing effect of these changes from a clinical and budgetary perspective and will continue to engage with dental professionals to ensure clarity and consistency in implementing these changes.

Responsibility for the Dental Treatment Benefit Scheme, which provides dental services to insured people, rests with my colleague, the Minister for Social Protection. My Department is not carrying out an evaluation on the effects of changes to either of these Schemes.