Editorial: Debate over water supply

It's certainly election year. And there's nothing more to get voters going than a good old debate about whether local councils should put fluoride in our water.

The issue has been flung into the spotlight - again - after the Hamilton City Council decided last week to remove fluoride from its water supply. It's quite the gutsy call.

Whakatane residents will get the chance to decide if they would like to continue having fluoride in their water when the issue is put to a referendum at this year's local government elections.

One of the problems with putting fluoride in water is it's seen to take away choice. Those who don't want it have no choice but to drink the water.

But on the other hand, children don't have a choice either. Some are born with parents who don't ensure their teeth are brushed or their diet is healthy.

Locally, our council was asked to consider this issue this time last year after strong recommendations from health officials. But it did not get the numbers to go ahead.

The Lakes District Health Board, Tipu Ora, Toi Te Ora Public Health Service and the Waikato Bay of Plenty branch of the New Zealand Dental Association all recommended the council put fluoride in the water.

Their pleas were backed by evidence we have some of the worst dental health statistics in the country.

Growing up in Timaru, we did not have fluoride in our water but my lovely mother gave us fluoride tablets and ensured we brushed properly twice a day and didn't eat rubbish foods.

Both my brother and I have been lucky to have good teeth.

I personally don't have an issue with fluoride put in my water. I do have an issue, however, when I see a beautiful child smile and sheepishly reveal their black teeth.