MANDATORY WATER FLUORIDATION

A Taste that's Hard to Swallow!

The New Zealand government has mandated the addition of fluoride to public water supplies through the Health (Fluoridation of Drinking Water) Amendment Act 2021. This legislation empowers the Director-General of Health to direct local authorities to fluoridate their water supplies, with directives already issued to 14 local authorities covering 19 water supplies .

While proponents argue that water fluoridation is a safe and effective measure to reduce tooth decay, Rock the Vote NZ raises concerns about the implications of this policy.

Concerns Over Mandatory Fluoridation

1. Individual Autonomy: The addition of fluoride to public water supplies removes the individual's right to choose whether to consume fluoridated water, potentially infringing upon personal freedoms.

2. Centralized Decision-Making: Transferring the authority to mandate fluoridation from local councils to a central government figure diminishes local governance and community input in decisions that directly affect residents.

3. Scientific Debate: While many health organizations endorse water fluoridation, some studies and experts question its efficacy and safety, suggesting that the scientific consensus may not be as clear-cut as presented.

Our Alternative Approach Aligned with Our Values

Rock the Vote NZ advocates for solutions that respect individual choice promote public health:

• Public and Education: Implement comprehensive dental health education programs to inform citizens about oral hygiene practices and the use of fluoride containing products.

• Targeted Interventions: Provide fluoride treatments and dental care services communities to and individuals at higher risk of dental decay, ensuring resources are directed where they are most needed.

• Community Engagement: Encourage local decision-making by involving communities in discussions and decisions about water fluoridation, ensuring that policies reflect the preferences and needs of residents.

Conclusion

While addressing dental health is important, mandatory water fluoridation raises significant concerns about individual rights and local autonomy. Rock the Vote NZ believes in empowering individuals and communities to make informed decisions about their health, advocating for approaches that respect personal choice and democratic processes.