Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 6 Mar 2001

Vol. 532 No. 1

Written Answers. - Health Strategy.

Bernard Allen

Question:

177 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children if he has received a critique of the Government's health strategy document entitled, Shaping a Healthier Future, from the Economic Social Research Institute; and, if so, if he will publish this critique. [6549/01]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin):

As part of the work on the development of a new health strategy I commissioned a critique of the current strategy document, Shaping a Healthier Future, 1994. The new strategy will clearly build on the current plan and we wish to ensure that it reflects best contemporary practice.

The Economic and Social Research Institute was awarded the contract for this work and submitted the first stage of its analysis on 2 February last. On 28 February I received the final stage of the critique. I am considering its contents and intend to publish the entire report shortly to coincide with the inaugural meeting of the consultative forum I am establishing on the new strategy.