Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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460. To ask the Minister for Health if he will address a matter (details supplied) regarding dental care for under sixes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42270/19]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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The Public Dental Service (PDS) of the HSE provides dental services to special needs patients and children under 16. It provides pain-emergency treatment to all children under 16 years of age and routine dental examinations and care for school children at key stages of development. I have asked the HSE to respond directly to the Deputy's query concerning dental services in Co Laois.

Smile agus Sláinte, the new National Oral Health Policy includes proposals for the introduction of packages of care for children from birth to 16 years of age, with children under 6 being prioritised in 2020. These packages of care will be delivered by contracted local dental practices and will facilitate many more children to access care. This should address any shortcomings in the current approach which targets children in certain classes.