Denis Naughten (Longford-Roscommon, Fine Gael)
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Question 369: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Question No. 332 of 26 January 2005 when she intends to complete the strategic review of existing service provision for persons with disabilities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25083/05]

Tim O'Malley (Limerick East, Progressive Democrats)
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As the Deputy is aware, my Department is currently carrying out a strategic review of existing service provision in consultation with relevant interests with a view to enhancing health and personal social services to meet the needs of people with disabilities. This review is being carried out in accordance with the Department's commitment in Sustaining Progress, the Social Partnership Agreement 2003-2005, in consultation with relevant interests. It is expected that the review of existing service provision will be completed by the end of 2005. As the Deputy may be aware, section 31 of the Disability Act 2005 requires this Department to prepare and publish a sectoral plan by July 2006. As there is an interdependence between the strategic review and the sectoral plan, it is intended that, where possible, consultation with relevant interests will take place in tandem early in 2006. Following the consultation exercise referred to above, my Department will prepare a new statement of policy sign-posting the future direction of health and personal social services for people with disabilities.