asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he is aware that because of the dispute between his Department and the Irish Dental Association dental services under the various Acts are not available to insured workers in Waterford; and the steps he is taking to restore such services immediately.

I am aware that, acting on the advice of the Irish Dental Association, a number of dentists in Waterford formerly participating in the dental benefit scheme, withdrew their services. There are, however, still two dentists in Waterford city providing services under the scheme to insured persons.

New proposals designed to end the dispute are at present being considered by the Irish Dental Association.

Could the Parliamentary Secretary inform me when the results of the consideration of the new proposals will be received by the Department?

I have informed the Deputy that they were being investigated by the Irish Dental Association. I do not know whether they will return with their answer tomorrow or in twelve months' time.

I am only asking the Parliamentary Secretary to indicate when. Next year, perhaps?

How do I know?

The Parliamentary Secretary knows very little.

It is to the Irish Dental Association that the Deputy should be addressing his question.