Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Thursday, 5 December 2013

Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health and Children

HIV-AIDS Strategy: Discussion

11:10 am

Dr. Tony Holohan:

I apologise, as I overlooked answering Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin's specific question. It should, of course, provide such an opportunity. It was something we committed to finishing last year, but we did not get it done. We are committed to having it done as soon as possible in early 2014 in line with the timeline I mentioned in response to the Deputy's question.

Regarding the specific question on the HSE service plan, it is still under consideration, but, generally speaking, it is challenging to prioritise everything, particularly prevention services, at a time when public resources are challenged. I am not saying anything specific, but the Deputy can be certain that the people before the committee fought hard behind the scenes to maintain the focus on issues of health and well being in general.

That is as much as I can say at this stage.

We were asked a number of specific questions by Senator John Crown which we have noted and will respond to in writing. We will also respond in writing to the Chairman's question on funding for Dublin Gay Switchboard.