It was a matter of grave concern and huge disappointment to learn about eight weeks ago that the mammograph machine had come to the end of its natural life but that the Mid-Western Health Board had no intention of replacing it. Eighteen months ago the same series of events occurred in Ennis General Hospital. The mammograph machine there had come to the end of its life but the health board took the view that it should be replaced. The decision regarding Nenagh General Hospital, however, was negative. No consultation took place with the local community or the Friends of Nenagh Hospital. The news was released via the local media. This happened at about the beginning of October.