§ Mr. LlwydTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what emergency provision there is for dental patients in Gwynedd who cannot get access to NHS dental treatment.
§ Mr. RichardsAccording to information supplied by the Gwynedd family health services authority, there are 11 emergency sessions each week, at various times, on most days, including weekends, in clinics throughout Gwynedd.
That authority is best placed to advise and assist patients who require emergency treatment. Patients can also be referred to the community dental service, which provides a "safety net" for those unable to obtain general dental services.
§ Mr. LlwydTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many representations he has received during the past three months on the subject of dental service provision in Gwynedd; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RichardsSince 1 October 1994, 38 representations have been made on the subject of dental service provision in Gwynedd. During the same period, three questions have been asked in the House on the same subject.
267WI am aware that patients in Gwynedd who are not registered with a dentist may have difficulty in obtaining NHS treatment. I fully recognise the unsatisfactory situation in the county and officials are in frequent contact with the Gwynedd health authorities. I will continue to assist them in their efforts to find solutions.