The national cancer strategy 2003 is being developed by the national cancer forum in conjunction with the Department of Health and Children. On television last Monday night, comparisons were made between the number of neurologists in Ireland and the numbers in other countries. The results of these comparisons showed us to be in an unbelievably poor position. Why should Ireland lag so far behind? That contributes to the waiting lists and the incredibly lengthy periods patients must wait before seeing specialists. It was suggested that the waiting list for a neurologist is two years. If someone wishes to see a specialist, the situation is serious in the first instance and we hardly need to comment on the possibilities.