Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)
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Question 287: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if she is satisfied that enough is being done to implement the Cardiovascular Health Strategy; the number of its 211 recommendations that have been implemented to date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15313/09]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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The Government has committed over €60 million since 2000 towards the implementation of the Cardiovascular Health Strategy, 'Building Healthier Hearts'. This funding has supported a wide range of new services and initiatives which have had a positive impact on the diagnosis and treatment of patients with heart disease. An audit of progress on the implementation of the Strategy showed a continuing decline in cardiovascular disease.

However, given the many changes that have occurred since the strategy was launched in 1999, an updated policy on cardiovascular health, including stroke, was considered necessary to ensure that cardiovascular health continues to be a high priority for the health service. In September 2007, I established a Cardiovascular Health Policy Group to draw up a new policy framework for the development of all aspects of cardiovascular health, including stroke. It is expected that the report of the Group will be published by the end of June 2009.

Seán Connick (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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Question 288: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if she is committed to the work of local voluntary cardiac groups; the person in her Department who is responsible for coordinating these groups; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15321/09]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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The organisation, co-ordination and funding of voluntary cardiac groups is a matter for the Health Service Executive (HSE) and accordingly I have referred the Deputy's question to the HSE for direct reply.

The Health Promotion Policy Unit of my Department is responsible for policy matters in relation to cardiovascular health, and in particular, the development of a new Cardiovasculaar Health Strategy.