Joe McHugh (Fine Gael)

It is extremely important that we remain focused on the demands of the people in the north west, and not only those in Donegal. I speak of others straddling the Border, from Tyrone down to Fermanagh and back up to Derry. There is an urgent demand to ensure a north-west satellite radiation treatment centre. I acknowledge that this is a move forward and accept that there has been very positive co-operation between North and South. I also acknowledge that this is more than simply a relationship between the two Departments but something symbolically significant.

The point I wish to make is simple. Prior to the 2002 general election, a commitment was made, in writing, that a north-west satellite radiation treatment system would be put in place. I have been asking for such a service for almost four years but have yet to see any evidence that this commitment will be fulfilled.