The Minister is fully committed to the development of quality services to achieve best health outcomes. In relation to the development of cancer services generally, this commitment can be seen in the level of funding provided. Since 1997, over €103 million has been invested in the development of services, well in excess of the £25 million initially envisaged in the cancer strategy. This investment has enabled the funding of 76 additional consultant posts in key areas such as medical oncology, radiology, palliative care, histopathology and haematology. This includes approval for nine new consultant posts with a special interest in breast disease.