263 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when the national Traveller health strategy will be adopted and implemented. [19827/01]

293 Ms O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children when he will publish the Traveller health strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20131/01]

299 Mr. Flood asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the concerns of Traveller organisations at the continued failure to adopt the national Traveller health strategy; and his views on the calls from the Traveller organisations in this regard (details supplied). [20214/01]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 263, 293 and 299 together.

The National Traveller Health Advisory Committee has submitted its recommendations for a proposed national Traveller health strategy. The committee's proposals will provide a major input into the strategy which is currently being drafted in my Department with a view to publication within the coming weeks.

Upon publication the strategy will be circulated to health boards who will be asked to draw up plans for its phased implementation. The NTHA committee will continue to play an important advisory role in relation to the implementation of the strategy following its publication. I am considering the appointment of an independent chairperson to that committee.

When the strategy is published the provision of resources, including staff resources, for its implementation will be a matter for discussion with the health boards and other interested parties. I was pleased to be able to allocate £1 million in revenue funding for new developments in Traveller health services this year. This is evidence of the Government's commitment to meeting the needs of this population group.