Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
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624. To ask the Minister for Health his views on correspondence (details supplied) regarding fluoride in the water supply; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48934/13]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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Water fluoridation and the use of appropriate fluorides is a major plank of public health policy in Ireland in the prevention and management of tooth decay. In 2002 the Forum on Fluoridation, which was established to review this policy, concluded that the fluoridation of public piped water supplies should continue as a public health measure. The Irish Expert Body on Fluorides and Health, established in 2004, continuously monitors new and emerging issues on fluoride and its effects. It advises that the balance of scientific evidence worldwide confirms that water fluoridation, at the optimal level, does not cause any ill effects and protects the oral health of the population. The opinion of the Expert Body is supported by major international scientifically validated reviews. The effects of fluoridation on health and related matters are kept under constant review.