Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)

Professor Keane is assessing capacity in the eight centres. This is the area in which he has been allocated a sum of €5.8 million, two thirds of which will go to hospitals outside Dublin. None of the eight centres has the capacity and all of them need more specialists.

The issue is not only one of providing additional money. This year an additional €35 million has been provided. It is also one of redeployment, particularly of clinical expertise at consultant level. For example, I understand Mr. Barry, the breast surgeon in Castlebar, will perform breast surgery in Galway on one day each week.

When Professor Keane was asked to reform the system in British Columbia, he was told by the Prime Minister of that state that he would not receive additional funds. One can imagine the challenge that presented. We are not in that position.

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