Seán Haughey
Question:219 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will publish and implement the national traveller health strategy without delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15686/01]
Written Answers. - National Traveller Health Strategy.
Joe Higgins
Question:238 Mr. Higgins (Dublin West) asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will publish the national traveller health strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15812/01]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 219 and 238 together.
The National Traveller Health Advisory Committee has submitted its recommendations for a proposed national Traveller health strategy. The committee's proposals will provide a major input into the national Traveller health strategy which is currently being drafted in my Department with a view to publication shortly. Upon publication the strategy will be circulated to health boards who will be asked to draw up plans for the phased implementation of the strategy. It is expected that the national Traveller health advisory committee will continue to play an important advisory role in relation to the implementation of the strategy following its publication.
As the strategy is still being finalised, the Deputies will appreciate that I am not in a position to comment on what resources may be required for its implementation at this time. However, I was pleased to be able to allocate £1 million in revenue funding for new developments in Traveller health services this year which is evidence of this Government's commitment to meeting the needs of this population group.