Dinny McGinley (Donegal South West, Fine Gael)

Naturally, we introduced the subject of cancer services and radiation services in New Zealand. We were told that its yardstick or benchmark is that no patient should be further than two hours from such a facility. I was very fortunate last year because I had another trip to Switzerland. Two eminent Members went with me, the Ceann Comhairle's predecessor, Deputy Rory O'Hanlon, and former Senator, Mary Henry. We met the Minister there who informed us that in her canton, which has one million inhabitants, there are six publicly funded radiation centres and a number of private centres.

In the limited time available to me, I welcome what has been announced today. That there will certainly be a breast cancer service in Letterkenny goes some way towards meeting needs.

The Minister for Health and Children must join her Northern Ireland Executive counterpart to ensure cross-Border co-operation on the provision of health services for cancer sufferers in the region.

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