To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether he plans to repeal the legislation that was introduced by the previous Minister which requires dental surgeries to register as independent hospitals with the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority on a form which is not designed for use by small businesses; and if he will engage with the relevant dental authorities and organisations on this issue.

I have no plans to repeal legislation, which from 1 April 2011 provides for the regulation of all dental establishments delivering private dental care, including orthodontics. This legislation will provide assurance to the public, through regular inspection and monitoring by the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA) that private dental treatment is delivered to a minimum standard.

The registration of private dental practices within the classification of “independent hospital” is a legislative mechanism to facilitate regulation of the sector, but does not mean that they are treated, in terms of regulation and inspection, as hospitals. They are regulated and inspected with respect to the minimum standards for dental services set by the Department.

The registration application procedure, including documentation, is a matter for the RQIA and I understand that application forms and guidance on completion have been issued to all relevant practices.

I am happy to engage with dental authorities and organisations on any issues of concern.