Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
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Question 222: To ask the Minister for Health his plans to review the legal implications of water fluoridation and if he is 100% sure that no human health issues arise from the fluoridation of water; if any health studies, risk studies or assessments have been undertaken regarding same here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21089/12]

Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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The Health (Fluoridation of Water Supplies) Act,1960 provides for the fluoridation of public water supplies. e Forum on Fluoridation, which reported in 2002, advised 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. It 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 have been studies in Ireland concerning water fluoridation. In addition, a bio-monitoring study of total fluoride intake in Ireland is planned and the HSE is currently in the process of establishing a high level advisory group to provide technical and academic oversight of the study. 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.