David Cullinane (Waterford, Sinn Fein)
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1425. To ask the Minister for Health his plans to carry out a root-and-branch reform of the dental treatment service scheme; his plans to put in place a new contract; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29070/22]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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I have given a commitment to substantial reform of oral health provision in accordance with the National Oral Health Policy, Smile agus Sláinte, which was published in 2019. Improving and enabling easy access for the public to oral healthcare services is a key component of that Policy.

Under the Policy, it is proposed that oral healthcare packages will be provided for medical card holders over 16 years. The packages will be provided in a local primary care setting by oral healthcare practitioners contracted by the HSE. HSE community oral healthcare services will provide additional high-support care as required.

Work on the substantive review has already commenced and I have asked my officials and the HSE to undertake further engagement with all dental stakeholders in implementing necessary reforms.

The outcome of the review will be reflected in a new contract for oral health care.