Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
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Question 515: To ask the Minister for Health if he will give a clear timeframe for the implementation of the carer's strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30568/12]

Willie Penrose (Longford-Westmeath, Labour)
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Question 516: To ask the Minister for Health when the national carers strategy will be introduced; the timetable for implementation of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30835/12]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 515 and 516 together. The development of a National Carers' Strategy to support carers and to address issues of concern is a key commitment in the current Programme for Government.

While issues relating to carers span a number of different Departments, the Taoiseach allocated responsibility for the preparation of the Strategy to me in my capacity as Minister for Equality, Disability, Mental Health and Older People.

Consultations with other Departments and with national organisations representing carers have taken place and a draft has been completed for submission to Government in July, requesting formal adoption and publication of same.

The Strategy will not be an operational plan but will set the strategic direction for future services and supports for carers in recognition of their role and contribution to maintaining children, adults and older people with physical or mental health difficulties in their own homes. It will be cross-departmental, conceptual and visionary and will establish a number of high-level principles, goals and objectives and a road map to implementation.