asked the Minister for Health if he intends to introduce a new Dental Health Bill and, if so, when.

I intend to introduce a new Dentists Bill to replace the Dentists Act, 1928. I hope to finalise the consultation process with interested agencies in the near future. The Bill will then be introduced for consideration by the Oireachtas at the earliest possible opportunity.

Would the Minister be willing to receive submissions and deputations from interested parties if he receives such requests?

Certainly.

From all interested parties?

Within reason. I am prepared to receive submissions and deputations from any responsible bodies with legitimate interests.

Has the Minister agreed to receive a deputation from any of the dental prosthesis bodies in relation to the contents of this Bill?

I am not sure if I have an application before me.

That is a separate question.

I can assure the Minister that he has had such an application a long time.

If the Deputy knows the answer why does he ask the question?

I asked if the Minister would receive the deputation not if he had a request from them.

I will consider it.

Will this area be covered in this Bill?

As the Deputy knows full well, that is a matter which is the subject of very considerable argument and dispute as to whether those particular people should have certain powers under the dental legislation.

That is why I asked if they will be covered.

When the Deputy sees the Bill he will know.

The Minister will not tell us.

No.