‘This is the news we’ve been waiting for’ says Making Sense of Fluoride president Daniel Ryan, referring to the government’s announcement today that decision-making for fluoridation of public water supplies is to be removed from local councils and handled instead by district health boards.

‘It’s never been right for councils to have to grapple with an issue where they lack the necessary expertise,’ says Mr Ryan. ‘Opponents of fluoridation have seized every opportunity to scare councils with misinformation, often leading to unnecessary public hearings, referenda and even legal action that has cost councils a bundle. DHBs are far better equipped to consider what is a question of public health and they understand the complexities of scientific evidence, which overwhelmingly supports fluoridation as an important way to prevent tooth decay.’

Local Government NZ and a number of NZ mayors have lobbied central government for some time to take responsibility for fluoridation out of the hands of local government.

A number of experts support the move, which was also a recommendation of the widely-welcomed select committee report on child health in 2013. Some have even called for a directive from the Ministry of Health for compulsory fluoridation.

‘Our own world-famous Otago health study has shown that fluoridation reduces inequalities in society,’ says Mr Ryan. ‘This announcement will mean more New Zealanders have access to a proven health measure, saving millions of dollars and more importantly, improving the oral health of thousands.’

Members of MSoF met recently with Associate Health Minister Peter Dunne on the issue and congratulate central government for recognising that DHBs are far better placed to make appropriate decisions on fluoridation.

‘I imagine a lot of local councils will be feeling very relieved this will no longer be tying up their resources’, adds Mr Ryan.

‘We look forward to making a submission in support of a proposed bill when it goes before a select committee later this year.’

ENDS

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