Concern over fluoride in mains water

I am writing to express my concern about the fluoride that is in the mains water in Ireland.

There have been no tests done to prove that it is safe to consume as much fluoride as we do through drinking water from the mains. Fluoride is a harmful substance and it may be doing damage to our health.

In 1999, Denmark made it illegal to put fluoride into their water, and many other countries — Germany, China, Norway and Japan — have abolished water fluoridation. However, Ireland is still refusing.

Over 60% of our population lives in urban areas and have access to mains water. This means that 60% of our people have most likely been drinking fluoridated water for most of their lives. We are told that fluoride is good for our teeth, but there is no need to consume it. Otherwise, what is toothpaste for? It is the job of James O’Reilly, our Minister for Health, to make sure that proper tests will be carried out in the near future, and the results will be made known. Then, if needs be, water fluoridation can be stopped for the health and safety of our people.

Aoife Ni Bhroin (13)

Ballybane

Ballydehob

Co Cork