Limerick East): I propose to take Questions Nos. 29 and 109 together.
The advisory group on the transmission of infectious diseases was established with the following terms of reference: "to advise the Minister for Health regarding the prevention of the transmission of infectious diseases in health care settings."
In common with my ministerial colleagues I commission a number of reports each year. There is no general expectation that all of these reports will be published. Many of them are simply regarded as an input to the policy formulation process, and their advice and recommendations may be incorporated in other documents which are published or circulated to interested parties. I understand that this very question of publication was raised at the first meeting of the advisory group, and that it was agreed that the group's role was to submit a report to me. It would then be a matter for me to decide what subsequent action was appropriate.
Following consideration of the report within the Department of Health, a circular was issued to all health agencies advising them of screening procedures for hepatitis B to be introduced from 1 January 1997 for new employees in posts which involve exposure-prone procedures. This circular takes account of the relevant recommendations of the advisory group. However, in view of the concern which have been raised in this whole area, I have decided to make the advisory group's report available by placing a copy in the Library of the House, and it will also be circulated to interested parties.