Killybegs and South West Donegal dental concerns raised in the Seanad

Donegal-based Senator, Manus Boyle, told the Seanad that children’s oral health was at “serious risk” due to the “lack of dental services in the south-west Donegal region.”

Senator Boyle said: “I want to express my serious concern about the lack of dental services in the south-west Donegal region covering Glencolmcille, Carrick, Kilcar, Killybegs, Bruckless and Dunkineely since the retirement in May 2025. 

“Since the departure of the dentist, there has been no replacement dentist appointed to the Killybegs dental clinic, and it remains closed. As a result, 500 children in the area are currently without access to routine dental screening and treatment under the HSE school dental service. 

“We understand that children are now being referred to Ballyshannon for emergency treatment only. There are major difficulties here for families, with travelling distances significant. The emergency appointments are limited. Parents are told to seek advice from private dentists, but this is not financially feasible for many families in my community.

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“This situation is unacceptable, and children's oral health is at serious risk. Routine dental check-ups and preventative care are essential to avoid future complications and pain, and their teeth need to be looked after. 

“We appreciate the ongoing pressures on the HSE's dental service, but rural communities have been without a local dentist for the last six months. The absence of a school dentist is having a tangible impact on the health and well-being of children across many schools in my local area in south-west Donegal. I ask the Leader to get on to the Minister to look into trying to get a dentist back in the health centre in Killybegs.”

In response, Senator Sean Kyne, who led the Order of Business, stated: “Senator Boyle also raised the issue of dental services in Killybegs. 

“Perhaps he would put down a Commencement debate on this matter. It is quite specific, but it is important that all areas are serviced in regard to dental care.”