Gosford City Council votes in favour of Fluoridating its Water supply  

Gosford City Council last night voted in favour of introducing fluoride into the local water supply system and as a consequence will be writing to the NSW Department of Health seeking approval for this to happen as soon as possible.

'This was an important issue that needed to be reviewed and acted upon,' said Laurie Maher. 'We previously looked into this issue in detail during 2005 but consequently resolved that the information provided to us by external advisers and Government experts should be noted.

'Given the continuing discussion in the community and local media about fluoridation, particularly over the past year, I felt it was time for us to take definitive action and make up our minds one way or another.

'A decision on fluoridation was also required at this time due to imminent expenditure by the Council as part of our emergency drought contingency works to maintain non fluoridated water in Gosford's water supply.

'The decision to fluoridate the water in Gosford is one that affects the public health of the entire community and as a result there is significant debate on either side of the issue.

'Those in favour believe it assists in protecting the health of people's teeth, with adults as well as children benefiting from exposure to fluoride. Those against argue that much of the information on fluoridated water being beneficial is based on data collected several decades ago and that there have been significant changes in both research and dental hygiene since then,' said Laurie Maher.

'My view is that we should accept the advice of the NSW Department of Health and its advisers who have strongly recommended that we take this action in the interest of the community's dental health. '

The NSW Fluoridation of Water Supplies Act requires approval from the Secretary of the NSW Department of Health for the addition of fluoride to a water supply.

Council will be writing to the Secretary with immediate effect to obtain the required approval. 

ENDS

Media Enquires: Janet Saunders - 02 4325 7075

                                                       0438 191 328