John Perry (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 144: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that there are 140,000 women awaiting the BreastCheck screening programme; the ministerial orders she has given to the Health Service Executive to have this service in place in 2006 in Sligo and the north west; if her attention has further been drawn to the fact that it is unacceptable that this service will not be available to women in Sligo and the north west until 2009; the instructions she will give to the Health Service Executive to have this programme in place in 2006-2007. [38472/05]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The National Breast Screening Board is responsible for BreastCheck. The Health Service Executive has no function in the matter. The programme commenced in 2000 and covers the eastern, midland, north-eastern and parts of the south-eastern regions of the country. Screening is being offered free of charge, every two years, to approximately 160,000 women in those areas in the target age group 50 to 64 years of age.

The rollout of the national breast screening programme to the remaining regions in the country is a major priority in the development of cancer services. BreastCheck has advertised for lead consultant radiologists and radiographers for the two new clinical units, one at the South Infirmary-Victoria Hospital, Cork and one at University College Hospital, Galway. The recruitment of other key clinical posts will commence early in 2006. A design team has been appointed to work up detailed plans for the new units. 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.

There are approximately 130,000 women in the target population for screening in the remaining regions. BreastCheck is confident that the target date of 2007 for commencement of the rollout 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.