The Rotorua Daily Post asked the region's five candidates for September's general election what they thought about the issue of fluoridation.
Annette Sykes
Mana Party Waiariki candidate Annette Sykes:
Healthy teeth are important to good health. Bad teeth increase the risk of illnesses like heart disease and arthritis. Fluoridation remains a controversial way to reduce tooth decay because of concerns about effectiveness and safety.
For Mana, any decision to fluoridate water should only be made with the consent of the local community and with consent gained through an inclusive and robust process.
Mana also advocates for dental care to be included in the free public health system and for free healthy breakfasts and lunches to be served in low decile schools as part of a total well-being framework.
Tamati Coffey
Labour Party Rotorua candidate Tamati Coffey:
I want the best for the health and well-being of Rotorua's people and I can only say that after carefully looking at the evidence and speaking with local doctors, we should fluoridate our water.
International and domestic research shows the benefits of fluoridation, which overwhelmingly benefits children.
Fluoridation is an important part of oral health, along with a healthy diet and regular brushing and flossing.
In some areas in Auckland, where fluoridation doesn't occur, the effect on children from lower socio-economic backgrounds is dramatic, causing health issues for some that can last a lifetime.
If our kids will be able to smile with big white smiles, then I support it.
Rawiri Waititi
Labour Party Waiariki candidate Rawiri Waititi:
I don't believe fluoridating an entire town's water supply is the answer to poor oral hygiene. Education is the key. There needs to be more education in schools and there also needs to be more resources injected into community health groups to strengthen awareness around good oral hygiene.
Furthermore, it's important there's an extensive consultation process with the very community who will be impacted by fluoridation. The people of Rotorua need assurance that fluoridation of their water will not compromise their health.
It's absolutely imperative that iwi and hapu are consulted as kaitiaki (guardians) of our waters to ensure the essence of the wai, the rivers and lakes are protected with no environmental impacts.
Todd McClay
Rotorua MP Todd McClay:
Fluoridation is an issue that can polarise communities and recent comment suggests local people feel strongly both for and against this issue.
Some speak clearly of the benefits to oral health, especially for our younger citizens, whilst others are concerned about putting additives into our water.
Recently, Hamilton, Hastings and Whakatane held referenda on fluoridation. All three voted in favour.
While referenda aren't legally binding, it's a good opportunity for people to cast their vote in a fair and balanced way on issues like these.
I'm always interested in the views of local people and therefore would support a referendum at the next council election.
Te Ururoa Flavell
Waiariki MP Te Ururoa Flavell:
The Maori Party is concerned about the impact of tooth decay and supports strategies which are proven to be effective in strengthening oral health.
In Budget 2014, Tariana Turia announced new operating funding of $10 million for better oral health for children and adolescents, including activities that promote better oral health such as regular tooth brushing with fluoride toothpaste, regular check-ups or limiting sugary foods and drinks.
However, we also believe it is the right of locals to make the decision and that fluoridation of the water supply is a decision for local communities to make.
