Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 212: To ask the Minister for Health when he intends to publish a national action plan for rare diseases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10459/12]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Ireland has been supportive of the EU proposals on rare disease which concluded with a council recommendation in June 2009. The end point is that countries are recommended to develop plans or strategies preferably by the end of 2013. We are now well advanced in developing this work.

In April 2011, I established a National Steering Group to develop a policy framework for the prevention, detection and treatment of rare diseases based on the principles of high quality care, equity and to be patient centred. The policy will operate over a 5 year period, take account of the Council Recommendation on Rare Diseases (2009) and define priority actions subject to resource availability.

The National Steering Group is working on many areas relevant to the issue of rare diseases. It is also considering how best to consult with patients and key stakeholders on the broad proposals and recommendations that will emerge. It is expected that the group will submit a plan to me during the latter half of this year following which a decision to publish will be made.

Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 213: To ask the Minister for Health the reason that when an applicant now applies for home help, he or she has to wait up to seven or eight months for the application to be processed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10464/12]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.