249 Mr. Dennehy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on reports that large numbers of people may suffer from undetected diabetes; if she will initiate a campaign to raise public awareness on the matter; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24870/06]

The National Diabetes Working Group chaired by this Department's Chief Medical Officer submitted its Report in 2005. Diabetes has been acknowledged as a priority area for 2006 and the Health Service Executive is currently progressing implementation of the recommendations contained in Report.

Responsibility for public awareness campaigns in the area of health promotion now falls within the remit of the Health Service Executive. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to respond directly to the Deputy in relation to the proposal to have a public awareness campaign on Diabetes.