The national breast screening programme was established only as late as 1998, under the last Fianna Fáil led Administration, with the aim of reducing mortality from breast cancer by 20%, by screening women in the age group of 50 to 64 years of age. BreastCheck commenced screening in March 2000 with phase one of the programme covering the Eastern Regional Health Authority, the Midland Health Board and the North-Eastern Health Board areas. The decision to proceed on a phased basis is a reflection of the complexities involved in the screening process. It is essential that the programme be driven by international quality assurance criteria and best practice.