Since the implementation of the national cancer strategy, which commenced in 1997, there has been a cumulative investment of approximately €400 million in the development of appropriate treatment and care services for people with cancer. This includes a sum of €29 million which was provided in 2003 to ensure that we continue to address increasing demands in cancer services throughout the country in such areas as oncology and haematology services, oncology drug treatments and symptomatic breast disease services. Cancer services throughout the country have benefited from this investment, which far exceeds the £25 million requirement which was initially envisaged under the national cancer strategy. Among a range of other initiatives, this investment has enabled the funding of 80 additional consultant posts, together with support staff in key areas such as medical oncology, radiology, palliative care, histopathology and haematology.