Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Question 293: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when BreastCheck will be available in County Mayo; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30656/05]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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BreastCheck, the national breast screening programme, commenced in 2000 and currently covers the eastern, north eastern, midland and part of the south eastern regions of the country. There are approximately 160,000 in the target age group in these regions.

The roll out of the national breast screening programme to the remaining regions in the country is a major priority in the development of cancer services. A design team has been appointed to work up detailed plans for two new clinical units, one at the South Infirmary, Victoria Hospital, Cork and one at University College Hospital, Galway. It is anticipated that, subject to obtaining satisfactory planning approval, the design process including the preparation of the tender documentation will be completed by mid 2006. Approximately €21 million capital funding has been made available and my Department is in discussions with BreastCheck as regards the revenue requirements for the programme.

There are approximately 130,000 women in the target population for screening in the southern and western regions including approximately 9,000 in County Mayo. It is expected that screening will commence in these regions in 2007. This will ensure that all women in the 50 to 64 age group in every county have access to breast screening and follow up treatment where appropriate. Any woman, irrespective of her age or residence, who has immediate concerns or symptoms should contact her GP who, where appropriate, will refer her to the symptomatic services in her area.