Byron Shire councillors will get a private briefing on the merits of fluoridation today.

The neighbouring Lismore and Ballina councils seem likely to push ahead with plans to add the chemical to their water supply.

Byron is also supplied by Rous Water, but at this stage still has a policy opposing fluoridation.

Mayor Simon Richardson said councillors will hear from opponents and advocates of fluoridation, but admits some may have already made up their minds.

“I think there is going to be an aspect of that. I think fluoride is an issue which I would have thought most councillors, simply by conversing with members of the public for the last few months if not few years, have probably got a position already.

“But I like to think our councillors are still open to learn and to let some evidence help sway their opinion,” Cr Richardson said.

The mayor also says he won’t be putting forward any motion to change the council’s anti-fluoride policy.

“We do not support the fluoridation of our water supply through Rous Water.

“So that is our position and it’s up to somebody to put a recommendation to change that.

“I won’t be a councillor who’ll be putting that forward, so it’s up to other councillors who have been talking a lot about it to put up the motion,” Cr Richardson said.