A FORUM on the fluoridation of Lismore, Ballina and surrounding areas’ water will be hosted by the newly formed group, Fluoride Free Northern Rivers, tomorrow.

The group has been “obtaining legal advice on a possible High Court challenge to the validity of the direction by the Department of Health compelling Rous Water to undertake mass medication of the Lismore and Ballina water supply”, according to spokesman Al Oshlack.

Mr Oshlack said the department would not reveal what is meant by an “optimal level” of fluoride in a recent statement about starting water fluoridation.

He said the group was concerned about incidences of dental fluorosis and other health issues. “The truth is the high incidence of fluorosis in NSW amongst children and young adults has reached epidemic proportions,” he claimed.

“Bottle-fed babies, kidney and thyroid disease sufferers are particularly vulnerable. The community needs to be informed of the amount of water they should consume so as not to overdose.”

The group’s “family friendly” community forum will be held at Lismore Bowling Club, starting at 6pm. A petition opposing fluoridation will be passed around.

NSW Health has repeatedly stated water fluoridation will not adversely impact health.

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