Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent)
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142. To ask the Minister for Health the position regarding the removal of amalgam fillings for dental cavities, which have mercury in the debris of these fillings, which is found to be harmful if it leeches into the gums; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17978/15]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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The Minamata Convention on Mercury - a globally binding agreement on mercury was concluded in January 2013. This agreement was introduced for environmental reasons. Among the key points agreed is a phase-down of the use of dental fillings containing mercury amalgam taking into account the domestic circumstances of individual countries. The need to ensure environmentally sound storage and final disposal of the product was also agreed.

The detail of the phase-down of the use of mercury in dental fillings in Ireland is being considered and planned. There are no plans to remove existing dental amalgam fillings. Consideration is being given to the use of alternative materials in new fillings.