Anne Ferris (Wicklow, Labour)
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To ask the Minister for Health the timeline for the publication of the National Positive Ageing Strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7157/13]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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The Programme for Government has committed to completing and implementing the National Positive Ageing Strategy so that older people are recognised, supported and enabled to live independent full lives.

The Strategy will be a high level document outlining Ireland’s vision for ageing and older people and the national goals and objectives required to promote positive ageing. It will be an over-arching cross-departmental policy that will be the blueprint for age related policy and service delivery across Government in the years ahead.

The Strategy is being developed within the constraints of the present fiscal situation. The intention of the Strategy is not to propose new service developments. The strategy will set the strategic direction for Government policy on ageing by outlining the priority areas requiring action. It will be a matter for individual Departments/agencies to identify how best they respond to the challenges posed by an ageing population.

A considerable amount of preparatory work has already been completed and consultation with other Government Departments is ongoing. It is my intention that a draft of the Strategy will be brought to Government as soon as possible this year.