Clare Daly (Dublin North, Socialist Party)
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Question 643: To ask the Minister for Health the position regarding the fluoridation of drinking water, which is an issue of health and safety concern; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15069/11]

Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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The Irish Expert Body on Fluorides and Health, which operates under the aegis of my Department, 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. There are no plans to discontinue the policy of fluoridation of public water supplies, which continues to make an effective contribution to oral health in Ireland.