Mr. William O'BrienTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what options his Department has considered for reforming existing Northern Ireland legislation on(a) mental health and (b) care of children, in connection with the creation of community care trusts; and if he will make a statement.
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§ Mr. HanleyThe Government intend to publish a proposal for legislation later this year which will enable boards to delegate certain statutory functions to health and social services trusts.
In bringing forward new legislation, the Government's objectives are to enable as many units as possible to take advantage of the significant benefits that trust status offers, whilst also preserving the integrated structure of the health and social services in Northern Ireland.