Exploring the fluoridation of water as a public health intervention

In response to the Report of the Social Affairs Policy Review Committee (SAPRC), the Council of Ministers made a series of amended recommendations, which were endorsed by Tynwald, with the aim of reducing tooth decay and dental caries in children in the Isle of Man.

One recommendation was for Public Health to prepare a research paper exploring the fluoridation of Manx water and a report to Tynwald including the research paper, with any conclusions and recommendations. The research paper and report is now available to view on the Tynwald Register of Business. The Council of Ministers has reviewed this and confirmed that no policy position or further action on water fluoridation will be taken at this time.

We understand that there are a range of views about adding fluoride to the water here and want to reassure people that there are currently no plans to do this. Our task is to provide the current evidence in a balanced manner so that an informed decision can be made.

We are aware of a number of questions raised over the safety and effectiveness of fluoride in the water and want to share our findings in these areas. The Water Fluoridation FAQs provide a response to some of the most common queries about fluoride in the water supply and gives an overview of fluoride and what’s in it.