No answers to dental service allegations

IN November 2006, as a member of the orthodontic services review body, I submitted a minority report to the chairman of the committee Mr Hugh Kane, and to Professor B Drumm.

In that report I called for an independent investigation of the allegation of damage to children within the public health orthodontic service and the continued harassment and bullying of consultants who speak out on behalf of their patients by management.

It is clear that every attempt is being made within the HSE to prevent a tribunal being asked to investigate these issues.

If the HSE is not willing to investigate allegations of damage to children, clearly they have no interest in the protection of children.

If the HSE is obstructing any attempt to set up an independent tribunal of investigation into the issues, who are they trying to protect?

Who in management — either within the department or within the HSE — would be embarrassed by their behaviour if an independent tribunal of investigation is carried out?

Ian O’Dowling

Consulting orthodontist

Orthodontic Unit

St Finbarr’s Hospital

Douglas Road

Cork