The Waitaki District Council confirmed last week it had started fluoridating the town water supply following an order from director-general of health Dr Diana Sarfati.
On Tuesday, those against fluoridation made their feelings clear at the public forum section of the council meeting.
Carissa Samuelu raised her concerns as a young mother and the need for community consent.
"We are gravely concerned for those who do not have a voice at this table," she told councillors.
Ms Samuelu outlined a number of studies that suggested the dosage rate being implemented by the council could have neurological effects — particularly in babies who were on formula.
"There are numerous studies that early life exposure leads to long term neurological harm," she said.
She asked the council to "be brave" and uphold the New Zealand Bill of Rights for its residents.
"We are asking you to stand up, to be the voice for our children and the future generations of Waitaki. We are asking you to stop fluoridation now."
Caelan Huntress suggested that if the council truly did not have the authority not to fluoridate — as it had claimed — then it should join them by asking the director-general of health for "a public fluoride patient consultation".
A fluoride overdose as a youngster had left him with permanent health effects, he said.
It seemed now the council was colluding to override his right to choose.
What he wanted was a formal "patient consultation" on fluoridation and asked that the council formally seek that from the Ministry of Health.
"When my doctor recommends I take a medication, I ask questions. I can give my informed consent — my body, my choice," he said.
Questions that needed answering included the risk-benefit analysis comparing dental benefits with potential harms. Those harms included bone cancer, thyroid disorders and hindered brain development.
"Is there any surveillance in place to monitor cases of fluoride overdose? If not, why not?"
Cr Jim Hopkins said as it was the elected council it could not direct council officers to cease fluoridation without an assurance "we will not be prosecuted".
But he asked if the anti-fluoridation lobby would be happy, the council could write again to the director-general of health as a first action and they asked for that to be done urgently.
By Brendon McMahon
