Fluoridation of drinking water
Fluoridation of drinking water, the main aim of which is the prevention and control of dental caries (dental decay), commenced in Ireland in 1964 after the introduction of the Health (Fluoridation of Water Supplies) Act, 1960. The Act provides that health authorities shall arrange for the fluoridation of public piped water supplies. It also provides that local authorities may act as agents of health authorities in fluoridating such piped water supplies.
The Forum on Fluoridation, which reported in 2002, advised that the fluoridation of piped public water supplies should continue as a public health measure. The Irish Expert Body on Fluorides and Health was established in 2004. Its terms of reference are:
- to oversee the implementation of the recommendations of the Forum on Fluoridation.
- to advise the Minister and evaluate ongoing research - including new emerging issues - on all aspects of fluoride, its delivery methods as an established health technology and as required.
- to report to the Minister on matters of concern at his/her request or on own initiative.
The Irish Expert Body on Fluorides and Health advises that the balance of scientific evidence worldwide confirms that water fluoridation, at the optimal level, does not cause any ill effects and continues to be safe and effective in protecting the oral health of all age groups. More information is available here.
