Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
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1393. To ask the Minister for Health if the deadline announced in February 2017 for the publication of an implementation plan for the national neuro-rehabiltation strategy by June 2017 will not now be met; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28260/17]

Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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The Health Service Executive (HSE) Social Care Division and the HSE Clinical Programme and Strategy Division are working in tandem to progress the implementation of the National Policy & Strategy for the provision of Neuro-rehabilitation Services in Ireland. This is in line with the commitment to publish an implementation plan as outlined in the Programme for a Partnership Government and the commitment in the HSE National Service Plan 2017 and HSE Social Care Operational Plan for 2017.

I understand that the HSE has endeavoured to achieve an end of June 2017 timeline for the development and publication of an Implementation Plan. However, given the level of feedback received following a consultation process in 2016 and the need to enhance and expand the Implementation Framework to ensure engagement of the whole health system including acute hospital, post-acute and community level, it has not been possible to achieve this timeline. I understand that the HSE is committed to publishing an Implementation Plan as soon as possible.

The enhancement of the Implementation Framework will be completed by members of the National Working Group and overseen by the National Steering Group. I am happy to inform the Deputy that the National Steering Group, which is an oversight group with representatives from the HSE Reform Team - Disability Services, Acute Hospital Services, Primary Care, the Clinical Lead for the Rehabilitation Medicine Programme (Clinical Programme and Strategy) and the Clinical Lead for Social Care, has its first meeting scheduled for 4 July, 2017.

Full terms of reference for both the National Steering Group and National Working groups are in development, which will provide guidance on their roles and functions, to ensure that all members have clarity in terms of accountability and responsibilities.