Dentists to resume PRSI scheme

The Irish Dental Association and the Government have reported progress in their dispute over fees charged to patients covered by PRSI.

The extent of the progress is unknown, but according to a joint statement released this afternoon dentists have decided to resume operating the Dental Treatment Benefit Scheme.

The dispute began last March when the majority of dentists increased fees for patients covered by this scheme.

The Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs subsequently excluded these dentists from the scheme, effectively depriving 1.7 million people of a service they had already paid for.

Both sides are due to meet again next month to finalise a settlement.