Deirdre Clune (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)

The development of a national cervical cancer screening programme has been on the agenda for some time. It was promised in several programmes for Government in 1997 and 2002. Only in 2008 are we debating the implementation of a valuable programme that will save women's lives. Up to 75 women die from cervical cancer every year. It affects not just their families but their colleagues and friends. A screening programme such as this will save up to 80% of those lives. It is vital it is implemented as soon as possible.

The programme, however, has been dogged by controversy. In 2006, there were six-month waiting lists for smear tests. A large backlog developed and testing had to be outsourced, leading to a lack of confidence in the system. It is important that when developing the programme, women can have confidence in the system.

Deputy James Reilly gave figures from various medical professionals. The Coombe Women's Hospital, St. James's and University College Hospital Galway have also questioned the outsourcing of the programme to Quest Diagnostics and its ability to instil confidence in the screening programme. Dr. Conor O'Keane of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland questioned the future of pathology services in the country if this testing is outsourced. It is important we maintain and develop expertise in this area. When the contract comes up for renewal in three years we should hope that local laboratories can tender for the service. It is also important if we want to attract young people into studying medical sciences.

The Minister referred to the breast screening programme being rolled out and I note the excellence of the service in Cork. The number of cases uncovered in the few short weeks that the service began in Cork highlighted the need for it. I compliment those involved in developing this important service.

Have GPs agreed to take the smear tests as part of the cervical cancer screening programme? They will be an important cog in the process and we must ensure there are no delays in the roll-out of the programme. I was glad the Minister spoke positively about the introduction of a cervical cancer vaccine programme. I accept it will be difficult and will involve parental consent. It is a necessary programme to which I hope the Minister will give the thumbs-up. I hope it is introduced as soon as possible.

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