Vol. 510 No. 3
230 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to concerns regarding the spread of illness, for example, tuberculosis, among homeless people living in Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22225/99]
The homeless are a high risk group in relation to a number of health conditions, including tuberculosis. While homeless people would typically have access to the full range of health services without charge, their take-up of services is significantly lower than the general population. The Eastern Health Board has drawn up a comprehensive plan for the provision of a co-ordinated range of services for the homeless in Dublin which takes into account the particular needs of this group. Measures to combat homelessness involve a variety of agencies and in recognition of this, the Cabinet Sub-Committee on Social Inclusion decided that a cross-Department team, to be chaired by the Department of the Environment and Local Government, be established to develop an integrated response to the many issues involved. The team's report will include recommendations in relation to the health services and will be informed by the Eastern Health Board plan which has been submitted to the team. The report of the cross-Department team is expected to be finalised late this year or early in the New Year. I would hope to make progress on the health related recommendations of the team in the context of the year 2000 Estimates.
