To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) his assessment of the impact of the recent employer National Insurance announcement on dental practices; and (ii) any steps his Department is taking to support dental practices in relation to this.

I recognise that the changes arising from the Autumn Budget will have a significant impact on future budget and costs. However, it is not possible to provide a definitive assessment on our future funding position until a budget settlement for future years has been reached. Despite the positive news about the 2024/25 budget, it is still likely we will be facing a significant funding gap in 2025/26 as a result of both inflationary pressures and increased demand.

I acknowledge there are a number of healthcare providers that will be affected by the rise in employer National Insurance contributions announced in the Budget and I understand that as well as General Dental Practitioners, GPs, care homes and hospices have all voiced concerns about the impact this will have on them.

Recognising this and the valuable role played by those providers, these funding pressures will nevertheless need to be considered and prioritised alongside other priorities before I am in a position to make any commitments.