I propose to take Questions Nos. 308 and 351 together.
Infectious diseases are notified to my Department under the provisions of the Infectious Diseases Regulations, 1981, and subsequent amendments. A review of these regulations was initiated by my Department in 1999 and the advice of the National Disease Surveillance Centre has been sought on a number of issues, including whether additional diseases should be made notifiable.
The National Disease Surveillance Centre has prepared a discussion document on the issues and is currently engaged in a process of consultation with interested parties. My Department will consider its recommendations when they are received.