49 Mr. Sherlock asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he will publish the National Steering Committee on Violence Against Women’s strategic plan; the groups involved in drafting this plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12935/07]

My Department commissioned consultants to draw up a new strategic action plan to guide the work of the National Steering Committee on Violence Against Women (NSC). The consultants commissioned to draw up the plan were Centre for Corporate Community. The NSC also set up it's own Advisory Body, comprising NSC members, to provide them with guidance on the Strategic Plan.

The draft strategic plan was considered by the NSC at it's meeting on 21st February, 2007. The Advisory Body raised a number of concerns regarding the plan and it was agreed that the plan required further consideration by the NSC.

When the NSC has completed its deliberations, a decision will be made regarding publication of the plan.