Written answers

Tuesday, 31 January 2006

Department of Health and Children

Cancer Screening Programme

8:00 pm

Photo of Róisín ShortallRóisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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Question 156: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she is satisfied herself that BreastCheck is to be rolled out within the target set out; if she is further satisfied that BreastCheck will meet the full population of women eligible; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3047/06]

Jerry Cowley (Mayo, Independent)
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Question 162: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the short listing, fee negotiations, interviews and completion date are available for the BreastCheck extension; the discussions which have taken place regarding staffing requirements; the date on which the women of the west can expect this service to commence in 2007; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3003/06]

Photo of Mary HarneyMary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 156 and 162 together.

My Department has made additional revenue funding of €2.3 million available to BreastCheck this year to, inter alia, provide for the recruitment and training of staff to commence the national rollout of the screening programme in 2007.

BreastCheck has advertised for lead consultant radiologists and radiographers for the two new clinical units at the South Infirmary-Victoria Hospital, Cork and University College Hospital, Galway. BreastCheck expects the recruitment process for other key clinical posts to commence shortly.

The design process for the two clinical units is progressing. The applications for planning permission for both clinical units have been lodged with the relevant local authorities and decisions are expected in March. It is anticipated that the design process, including the preparation of the tender documentation, will be completed by mid 2006. Following the selection of the contractors, construction of the two units will commence. BreastCheck is confident that the target date of 2007 for commencement of the rollout of the programme to the remaining regions, including the west, will be met. BreastCheck has advised my Department that the plan for the rollout will be formulated in accordance with the operational practice developed in the regions covered by the current programme. This means that it is anticipated that each area will be visited over the first two year screening round and then re-screened approximately 21-27 months later.

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