CAT/OP/ARM/2 3. Working methods 32. While ensuring a clear normative framework and adequate resources will improve the efficiency of the national preventive mechanism, more is needed. A coherent, practical, functioning mechanism requires the adoption, from the outset, of clear working methodologies for all its functions, in accordance with the Optional Protocol and the principles relating to the status of national institutions for the promotion and protection of human rights (the Paris Principles). Better communication and improved coordination between the mechanism and the Expert Council is also key for both to work efficiently and in a collegial manner. 33. The Subcommittee urges the members of the national preventive mechanism to improve information-sharing by holding regular meetings and using other channels of communication, by adopting a collaborative attitude and by adopting clearly defined working methods for all its functions. 4. Existing and draft legislation 34. The Subcommittee notes the very limited role of the national preventive mechanism in terms of the transmittal of observations and recommendations to the authorities, including comments on existing and draft legislation, especially the piece of legislation relating to the fulfilment of its mandate in accordance with article 19 (c) of the Optional Protocol. Two reasons for this might be the lack of a clear legal basis for the mechanism to comment on draft laws and the lack of human resources to carry out that function effectively. 35. In order to fully discharge its mandate in accordance with article 19 (c) of the Optional Protocol, the Subcommittee recommends that the national preventive mechanism take proactive steps to submit proposals and comments regarding existing and draft legislation that relates to the prevention of torture and other forms of illtreatment. To that end, it should develop a proactive strategy for setting priorities that is based on a comprehensive analysis of the situation and follow up on its comments and recommendations (see CAT/OP/12/5, para. 35). 36. The Subcommittee also recommends that the national preventive mechanism regularly publish the results of its work, be it through its annual report, a thematic report or reports on visits, and to make public its observations on existing and draft legislation. B. Recommendations on the main methodological issues relating to visits 37. In order to assist and advise the national preventive mechanism in its task of protecting persons deprived of their liberty, the Subcommittee makes the recommendations below concerning preparations for visits to places of detention, the methods to be used during such visits and steps to be taken following their completion. 1. Prior to visits Strategy 38. The Subcommittee notes that the national preventive mechanism, as a collegial body of experts, could have a better-defined strategy. It should agree on and establish a long-term strategy of its activities and an annual plan of work including unannounced and follow-up visits to all places of detention under the State’s jurisdiction where persons are or may be deprived of their liberty, in accordance with articles 4 and 29 of the Optional Protocol. 6