To ask the Minister of Health whether any strategy will be in place to succeed the Diabetes Strategic Framework, including a timeframe for when this will be published.

The Diabetes Strategic Framework for Northern Ireland was launched in November 2016. Launched in tandem the NI Diabetes Network brings together people living with diabetes, carers, and health and social care professionals working in partnership with Diabetes UK on the design and delivery of better diabetes services.

The Network supports the implementation of the Strategic Framework for Diabetes and is one of a series of initiatives which aims to transform Health and Social Care (HSC) services across Northern Ireland.

My officials are currently considering next steps in relation to the Diabetes Strategic Framework. To assist with this, preparations are underway to host a planning workshop with the NI Diabetes Network in early Autumn.

This event will build on a similar workshop held earlier this year and will focus on identifying future strategic priorities and mechanisms to sustain the effective partnership arrangements developed during the lifespan of the Framework.