89 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Health the number of children awaiting orthodontic treatment in County Westmeath at 1 September for each of the years 1990 to 1992; and the action if any he proposes to take to reduce this waiting list.

The numbers awaiting orthodontic treatment in County Westmeath for each of the years in question were as follows:— 1 September 1990, 320;1 September 1991, 330; 1 October 1992, 170.

Orthodontic treatment is currently being provided for about 150 patients.

Additional funds have been made available to the Midland Health Board over the past years specifically for the development of orthodontic services.

A post of consultant orthodontist was approved by my Department for the Midland Health Board but the board were unsuccessful in the Local Appointments Commission competition and have made alternative arrangements with private specialists to provide services. The board will again endeavour to fill the vacant post of consultant orthodontist in the near future.