The party’s health policy said: “Labour believes that the amount provided for an emergency grant should actually cover the costs of urgent dental work. The rate of Special Needs Grants for dental treatment has not moved in over two decades, despite the rising costs.” The policy document said extending urgent dental grants was recommended by the Welfare Expert Advisory Group and the New Zealand Dental Association. Health Minister Andrew Little’s office confirmed that it was still committed to the policy, but it had not been funded in Budget 2021. JOHN BISSET/STUFF The government promised emergency health grants for dental care, kicking in from this year.