A question of fluoride in Waipukurau

Waipukurau citizens will be asked over the next two months whether Central Hawke’s BayDistrict Council should stop adding fluoride to their water supply.

The question is being asked as the fluoride dosing system at the Waipukurau water treatment plantneeds replacing – and Council considers it timely to ask the community their views about fluoride.Mayor Trish Giddens said today that Council has no opinion either way about fluoride in watersupplies, but Council will ensure that information both ‘for’ and ‘against’ fluoridation will be madeavailable to the public.

“There was no consultation with the public when fluoridation began in Waipukurau in 1979as it was seen as an important health issue at the time. But now with increased awareness, over thenext two months we will survey Waipukurau people directly about whether they still want fluoride inthe water. People can make written submissions or submit online, and expert advice will be readilyavailable. Council will then consider all submissions and advice and make an informed decision inNovember.”

The Hawke’s Bay District Health Board and local dentist, John Jukes, will present information both‘for’ and ‘against’ fluoridation at a public information evening on Thursday 10 September at5.30pm at the Memorial Hall. Written information will also be sent to properties in Waipukurauconnected to the water supply, and will also be available on Council’s website. Waipukurau’swater supply is the only water supply fluoridated in Central Hawke’s Bay.

Waipukurau Fluoridation ConsultationTimeline

• Early-September: Written information about the ‘pros’ and cons’ offluoridation will be sent to property owners in Waipukurau.

• Mid-September: People who own a property in Waipukurau and areconnected to the mains water supply will be sent a survey andsubmission form.

• Mid-September: People who are directly affected e.g: tenants,businesses, schools, are sent a survey and submission form.

• Anybody who is directly affected may also make a written submission orsubmit online www.chbdc.govt.nz

• Submissions and surveys open on 18 September and close on 16October 2009.

• You may speak as part of your submission at a public Council hearing(date to be advised)

• Mayor and Councillors will consider the survey results, submissions,oral submissions, and make a final decision in November 2009.

Visit www.chbdc.govt.nz to have your say about fluoridation on Council’s forum and blog.Important:Central Hawke’s Bay District Council does not express a view on fluoridation.

Information‘for’ and ‘against’ fluoridation represents the opinions of the parties who have supplied thisinformation and should not be taken as reflecting Council’s position