Funds for just nine public dentist roles in Cork and Kerry for vulnerable groups

The schools programme is also under pressure, with 31,000 fewer children seen in 2023 than in 2017

A senior dental surgeon in a special needs job may work with frail, elderly patients or people with mental health conditions. The role can also include treating homeless people or asylum seekers, according to recent HSE job advertisements. File picture

Cork and Kerry have funds for just nine senior public dentist roles to treat children with disabilities and other vulnerable groups, in spite of long-standing Government vows to ensure better access.

The low numbers have been described as “astonishing” by the Irish Dental Association, while a Government TD demanded “decisive action” on the gaps.