Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

That must happen under the protocol after the clinical review is completed because, as Deputy Gilmore said, the important point is that patients be reassured in the first instance. The unfortunate problem we now face is that, because only two thirds of the cases have been clinically reviewed, one is not in a position at this stage to eliminate the vast majority of people who need have no fears in regard to the matter. As we have seen from the 38,000 cases that have already been reviewed, there was a delayed diagnosis in two.

People need to be reassured generally as to the level of risk involved. Deputy Kenny should note the level of risk is of a different nature from that which affected women in Portlaoise hospital in respect of symptomatic breast cancer. That is the position we are in.

To answer Deputy Gilmore's question, the HSE is engaging with Tallaght hospital today to see how we can expedite even further what has been achieved by the hospital thus far in dealing with the issue.

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