Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick East, Labour)
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Question 195: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the proposed roll-out of BreastCheck to the south and west is going forward in accordance with the proposed timescale; if there has been a delay in submitting a planning application for the testing and operation centre for the southern region at the South Infirmary in Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39098/05]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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The national BreastCheck screening 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 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 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 has advertised for lead consultant radiologists and radiographers for the two new clinical units. The recruitment of other key clinical posts will commence early in 2006. 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.