The Irish Dental Hygienists Association (IDHA) has won the bid to host the International Symposium of Dental Hygiene in 2021 in Dublin.

The news came in June at the 20th International Symposium on Dental Hygiene in Switzerland, as IDHA members fought to secure votes for Ireland facing ‘stiff competition’ from Australia and Italy.

Louise Fleming, IDHA president, said: ‘As a small association we have highlighted what a big impact a small group of like-minded professionals can achieve.

It puts Ireland firmly on the map as a conference destination

‘We have worked hard over the last six years to bring this prestigious conference to Ireland, which will give the IDHA international exposure, and an opportunity to attract a great host of national and international speakers to Dublin.

ISDH 2 2016‘For the association, this bid means that we are recognised globally; it puts Ireland firmly on the map as a conference destination, and for the profession, it means great things are yet to come.’

Preparation starts now

Barbara Derham and Louise Fleming presented the bid to the House of Delegates prior to the symposium, working with conference organiser Keynote PCO and Failte Ireland.

Louise says that preparation will start ‘immediately’ and hopes to work closely with the dental industry over the next five years.

‘We are also calling on the support of the dental industry and dental professionals within Ireland to join us in the momentous task in making this symposium one of the best,’ Louise adds.