It is vital in today's information age that no one be excluded and that organisations ensure that people with disabilities are included in all communications. The production of the children's storybook ‘The Magic Tooth’ in Braille, large print and in Irish by the Dental Health Foundation shows a determination to communicate their valuable message to all of Irish society young and old, informing everyone of the significance of dental care and oral hygiene.
The book, telling the story of a young girl who loses her first tooth and visits Fairy Land with her tooth fairy, was launched on Wednesday 2 May by the Minister for Health and Children, Mr. Michael Martin, T.D. It was written by Waterford dentist, Dr. John Hackett and published by the Dental Health Foundation. Commenting on the book, Mr. Martin said ‘Irish children deserve better health - this will be achieved through improved health services along with educational initiatives such as the Magic Tooth. Consequently I am delighted to be here to mark the book's launch.’
The National Council for the Blind of Ireland and Gael Linn TEO were both involved in the project from an early stage. Desmond Kenny, Chief Executive of the NCBI welcomed the publication of the book as a significant step towards an inclusive Irish society and culture.