Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
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Question 203: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when women in County Waterford will have BreastCheck available to them in view of the fact that it is alleged that lives are being lost due to the fact that BreastCheck in not available nationwide; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23998/04]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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Any woman, irrespective of her age or residence, who has concerns about breast cancer should contact her GP who, where appropriate, will refer her to the symptomatic services in her region. The roll-out of the national breast screening programme to the remaining counties, including Waterford, is a major priority in the development of cancer services. This will ensure that all women in the 50 to 64 year age group have access to breast screening and follow up treatment where required. A capital investment of approximately €20 million has been approved to construct and equip two static clinical units, in the south and west of the country. This investment will also ensure that mobile units are available to screen women in the relevant age group in County Waterford. BreastCheck and my Department are fully committed to an expeditious approach to the national rollout of the programme and representatives have met recently to progress the design process.