Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 150: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when BreastCheck will become available to women in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14463/06]

Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 217: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when the BreastCheck service will be available to women in the Waterford constituency; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14883/06]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 150 and 217 together.

I have met representatives of BreastCheck and they are aware of my wish to have the programme rolled out to the remaining regions as quickly as possible. For this to happen, essential elements of the roll-out must be in place, including adequate staffing, effective training and quality assurance programmes. I have made additional revenue funding of €2.3 million available to BreastCheck this year to provide for the early recruitment and training of staff. BreastCheck is confident that the target date of next year for the commencement of the roll-out to southern and western regions will be met; a more exact date for the roll-out will depend on the availability of adequately trained medical and technical staff, particularly radiographers.

BreastCheck recently interviewed for clinical directors for both regions and is in the process of making appointments. BreastCheck is also recruiting radiographers and a second consultant radiologist for each region. BreastCheck recently received planning permission for the new clinical units at University College Hospital Galway and the South Infirmary-Victoria Hospital, Cork and is now proceeding to tender for their construction.