107 Mrs. Geoghegan-Quinn asked the Minister for Health the progress, if any, made on the charters for children, expectant mothers, the elderly, mentally ill and people with physical or mental handicap as promised in the health strategy document, Shaping a Healthier Future. [2006/97]

Limerick East): The introduction of charters for the groups referred to by the Deputy is being addressed in the context of overall strategy implementation. The following developments will have a major influence on the provision of charters for these groups.

In regard to children, the Minister of State, Deputy Currie, announced in December 1996 that he is committed in principle to the establishment of an office of ombudsman for children. He is developing detailed proposals on the establishment of such a body to promote and protect children's rights. It is intended that the detailed proposals developed by the Minister of State will be referred to the Cabinet Committee on Children as soon as possible. The question of developing a charter for expectant mothers will be addressed following the publication of the women's health plan while the introduction of a charter for the elderly is still under consideration.