Michael McNamara (Clare, Independent)
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601. To ask the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Question No. 161 of 6 October 2021, when the dental treatment services scheme which was cut back significantly during the financial crisis will be restored given a restoration schedule for funding for general practice has been agreed by Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3177/22]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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I have given a commitment to a substantive review of the Dental Treatment Services Scheme, which will include fees paid to dentists. I have also acknowledged the immediate issues of concern with current arrangements under the Scheme.

My officials met with the Irish Dental Association in December to address both of these issues. It is the intention of my officials to hold further talks shortly with a view to implementing changes which would make the Scheme more viable and sustainable.

I secured additional funding of €10 million in Budget 2022 for that purpose, which is on top of the annual allocation of €56 million for 2022.