Widespread closure of practices “inevitable” for the duration of the crisis. Concern at lack of clear guidelines being issued to dentists as to current situation.

Next Government must reset relations with dentists and abandon plans which will worsen oral health outcomes.

Proposed National Oral Health Policy will be a prime focus for dentists. Irish Dental Association to canvas political parties on key topics.

Opinion editorial article from Irish Examiner 9th December 2019

Issue is not a dispute over fees but a disagreement on the appropriate model to deliver dental services to children

Woman who nominated him donates prize to Women’s Aid

The 2018 Annual Report of the Dental Complaints Resolution Service (DCRS) shows that of the 123 complaints accepted by the DCRS in 2018, two-thirds of cases were resolved.

Decrease of up to 23% in dentists employed by HSE for school screening. Increasing numbers of children only being offered appointments to be screened for the first time at sixth class (confirmed as policy in Cork). Waiting lists of 24-30 months for specialist dental treatments. IDA will ballot for industrial action if HSE makes unilateral changes to terms and conditions of HSE dentists.

Dentists want alternative models examined given concerns over Minister’s proposed new model. Interim plan required urgently to rebuild the public school dental service. Proposal’s timelines are unrealistic.

Irish Times article by Martin Wall, Monday 13th May 2019