Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)

Yes. We would like the specialist breast cancer surgeons to move to the centres and Professor Keane will be engaging them in dialogue in that regard. I understand that significant enthusiasm and interest have been expressed. We want activity to move from the centres to the hospitals where cancer surgery comes into the centre. Many people in these eight hospitals could have their surgery facilitated in different hospitals if the capacity was in place. It is a matter of moving some stuff out and other stuff in. The 13 places that have already closed dealt with in the order of 55 surgeries last year, or one per week.

An additional €1 billion has been spent on cancer treatment over the past ten years. Professor Keane will have control of that budget and of course more money will be available for cancer. Additional funds will be allocated for every speciality but cancer will receive special attention because of the aging of the population. However, to place all the emphasis on additional funding rather than what is already in place would be a mistake.

The transport issue is being reviewed by the HSE not only for cancer but also in respect of health services generally. The accommodation issue is also very important. I was impressed by the accommodation provisions made in British Columbia, which reported great patient satisfaction.

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