FED:Plibersek coy on universal dental scheme

AAP General News (Australia)
12-13-2011
FED:Plibersek coy on universal dental scheme

Incoming health minister TANYA PLIBERSEK has refused to commit the federal government
to a universal dental health care scheme.

But she's acknowledged dental services for poor Australians aren't adequate.

Ms PLIBERSEK has told ABC Television that she's not going to start making up policy
on the spot, the day after she was promoted to cabinet by Prime Minister JULIA GILLARD.

She says she needs to talk to the states and territories and be sworn in as health
minister before making any announcements.

Labor promised to consider investment in dental care as part of a deal with the Australian
Greens in return for the minor party's support for the Gillard minority government.

AAP RTV bc/rl/sw

KEYWORD: DENTAL (CANBERRA)

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