Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
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Question 124: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the developments which have taken place to ensure that BreastCheck is available in the south and west in January 2007; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31281/05]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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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.

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 regard to sessional commitments of a number of posts. Discussions are also taking place, involving my Department, on the revenue consequences of these posts.

There are approximately 130,000 women in the target population for screening in the southern and western regions. BreastCheck is confident that the target date of 2007 for commencement of the roll out will be met. 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.

Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
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Question 125: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the outcome of the cervical cancer screening trial programme in the mid-west region; her proposals regarding cervical cancer screening; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31282/05]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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A pilot cervical screening programme commenced in October 2000 and is available to eligible women resident in counties Limerick, Clare and Tipperary north. Under the programme, cervical screening is being offered, free of charge, to approximately 74,000 women in these three counties in the 25 to 60 age group, at five year intervals. I am committed to the national roll out of the cervical screening programme in line with international best practice.

An international expert examined the feasibility and implications of a national roll out of a cervical screening programme. The examination included an evaluation of the current pilot programme, quality assurance, laboratory capacity and organisation and the establishment of national governance arrangements. Following the publication of this report my Department undertook a consultative process with relevant professional and advocacy stakeholders. The consultative process is completed and my Department will now discuss options for the roll out of the programme with the Health Service Executive.