Jerry Cowley (Mayo, Independent)
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Question 149: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the short-listing, fee negotiations and interviews have been completed in relation to the BreastCheck extension; if the discussions in relation to the staffing requirements are complete; when the national roll-out in 2007 of BreastCheck will take place; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30884/05]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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The design team was recently appointed to prepare tender documentation for the two new BreastCheck clinical units, one at the South Infirmary-Victoria Hospital, Cork, and the other 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. BreastCheck expects that screening will commence throughout the regions in the second half of 2007.

I understand that the national hospital office-comhairle board recently approved in principle 12 consultant posts required for the national roll out. The board is seeking clarification from BreastCheck in relation to sessional commitments of a number of posts. Discussions are also taking place, involving my Department, on the revenue consequences of these posts.