I propose to take Questions Nos. 197 to 200, inclusive, together.
A review of the role and functionality of the Traveller Health Advisory Committee (THAC) took place in 2013. The review found that the transfer of the health budget to the HSE in 2006 resulted in significant changes to the functioning of the THAC and that the original purpose and focus of the Committee had changed. The THAC has not been convened since the review. The Traveller Health Advisory Forum, chaired by the HSE, continues to act as a national forum for discussion on issues around Traveller health.
The Deputy will be aware that the Department of Justice and Equality is leading on the development of a new National Traveller and Roma Inclusion Strategy. The Strategy, which is expected to run from 2016 to 2020, aims to provide a set of specific actions that need to be taken to improve the situation for Traveller and Roma communities in Ireland. It is envisaged that the Strategy will include agreed actions in relation to improving the health of Travellers. In the circumstances, the Department of Health intends to await the completion of the National Traveller and Roma Inclusion Strategy to inform consideration of the need for a repeat of the All Ireland Traveller Health Survey and the necessity for any additional national structures to address Traveller health.
In relation to the funding for Traveller health programmes and Traveller health units, this query has been referred to the Health Service Executive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.
