WDC loses fluoride battle

 

A legal challenge by the Whangarei District Council (WDC) to prevent fluoride being added to the town water supply has failed. The Council had sought an injunction from the High Court to delay the implementation of a directive from the Director-General of Health

In a decision released on the 24^th of March, Justice Karen Grau found the WDC’s conduct to defy the directive was unlawful. She noted that the council's evidence, including expert testimony on potential health risks, did not demonstrate immediate risks sufficient to justify interim orders, especially given that over half of New Zealand has had fluoridated water for decades without evident widespread harm.

Justice Grau said it was unlikely the council would succeed in its broader challenge against the directive’s safety and legality.

As a result of the failed injunction, the council commenced fluoridation of the town supply on 24 March. It is still considering whether to continue with its legal challenge.

Further information

RNZ article: Whangārei District Council bows to government directive to add fluoride to water supply Here >>>

Northern Advocate:  Whangārei to fluoridate water after court dismisses district council’s challenge   Here >>>