Australia - FLUORIDE VERDICT

A DECISION on adding fluoride to Warrnambool's water supplies is expected this week.The Department of Human Services revealed yesterday a decision was imminent. Spokesman Bram Alexander said a decision could be made in the next week or so. The Standard understands a decision could be announced as early as today. Several sources indicated an announcement was expected this week. If fluoride is approved it is unlikely to be added to supplies for several months.Warrnambool's water treatment plant would most likely need an upgrade. Mayor David Atkinson said the council had wanted the chemical to be added to supplies under last year's health plan.A decision this week would come just two months after the DHS renewed calls to add fluoride to the city's water. In May the department said it had been approached by city dentists and health professionals in support of fluoride. Last month the DHS distributed information booklets highlighting the benefits of fluoride to Warrnambool, Koroit and Allansford residents. Six health groups last week united to call for fluoride to be added to the city's supplies. Wannon Water marketing and communications manager Annette Cannon yesterday said the corporation had no role in any decision. ``It is a health issue and we are told whether to do it or not to do it,'' she said. She said the DHS had its own processes to follow and there was no time line. Adding fluoride to Warrnambool's water supplies has been a controversial issue since Melbourne's water was fluoridated more than 30 years ago. Just last week businessman Peter Hulin formed the Warrnambool Fluoride Action Group to oppose the push.