Written answers
Wednesday, 4 May 2011
Department of Health
Water Fluoridation
9:00 pm
Terence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Question 131: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if he will respond to a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10030/11]
James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Forum on Fluoridation, which was established by the Minister for Health and Children in 2000, advised in 2002 that the fluoridation of public piped water supplies should continue as a public health measure. The Irish Expert Body on Fluorides and Health, which was established in 2004, monitors new and emerging issues on fluoride and its effects on health and related matters. The expert body advises that the balance of scientific evidence worldwide confirms that water fluoridation, at the optimal level, does not cause any ill effects and continues to be safe and effective in protecting the oral health of all age groups. I have no plans to discontinue the policy of fluoridation of public water supplies, which continues to make an effective contribution to oral health in Ireland.
David Cullen
Posted on 13 Jun 2011 7:43 pm (Report this comment)
Another U turn by Fine Geal
Irish Independant
Monday January 15 2001
FINE GAEL has pledged to end the controversial compulsory practice of adding fluoride to all drinking water because of "serious health concerns".
And, if elected, the party will also order every health board to investigate existing levels of fluoride in groundwater supplies.
"Fine Gael believes that there are sufficient grounds to point to serious health risks from the cumulative amount of fluoride in our piped water supply system," according to a new policy document drawn up by Environment spokesperson Ivan Yates.
It says there are deep environmental concerns about the current programme of fluoridation of the country's water supplies aimed at reducing tooth decay.
Less than 2pc of Europe's population have fluoridated water and a number of countries had rejected, discontinued or banned the practice.