445 Deputy P. J. Sheehan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the progress he has made to date on a housing strategy for persons with mental health issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20138/10]

The Government's Housing Policy Statement, Delivering Homes, Sustaining Communities, reflects the commitment in Towards 2016 to develop a national housing strategy for people with a disability which will have particular regard to the housing needs of people with a mental health disability. The strategy, on which work is advanced, is being developed in conjunction with a National Advisory Group, chaired by my Department and involving the Department of Health and Children, the HSE, social partners and other relevant stakeholders, including the National Disability Authority. It is expected that the work of the National Advisory Group will be completed shortly.