asked the Minister for Health if he is satisfied that the free dental service for students is adequate.

I am not satisfied with the dental treatment services available for eligible persons including students. However, as the House is aware a comprehensive development programme for dental services is being prepared in order to make treatment more readily available to eligible persons.

168.

asked the Minister for Health the number of children and adults awaiting dental treatment in Limerick city; the length of the delay in each case; the number of people awaiting dentures through the Health Authority in the Limerick city area and the length of the delay in each case; and the number of dentists employed by the Mid-Western Health Board in the Limerick city areas.

The number of dentists employed at present by the Mid-Western Health Board in the Limerick city area is four. There are vacancies for two additional dentists.

The statistical information requested concerning dental treatment in that area is in the form of a tabular statement which, with the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to circulate with the Official Report.

A comprehensive development programme for dental services is being prepared in order to make treatment more readily available to eligible persons.

Following is the statement:

Persons in need of urgent treatment receive it with minimal delay.