Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
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Question 191: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the action she proposes in 2005 in regard to the implementation of the recommendations of the report of the diabetes service development group of the Diabetes Federation of Ireland, Diabetes Care-Securing the Future, and the recent supplementary report (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1007/05]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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In recognition that diabetes is an important health condition, a national diabetes group chaired by the chief medical officer of my Department was established in January 2004 and has met on a regular basis since. The terms of reference of the working group included: the epidemiology of diabetes, health promotion and preventive initiatives, examination of services and the expansion of shared care programmes, and recommendations on future needs.

In the course of its work, the group has received and considered a number of submissions including those from the Diabetes Federation of Ireland. It is the intention that this work will lead to a diabetes strategy which underlines the importance of prevention, is patient centred and will enhance the quality of care for people with diabetes.

I understand that the group's intention is that it will conclude its report for submission to and consideration by my Department later in 2005.