Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick East, Labour)
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Question 173: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the plan for the roll-out of BreastCheck to the south and west are proceeding according to the expected timeframe; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18240/06]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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I have met with representatives of BreastCheck and they are fully aware of my wish to have the programme rolled out nationally 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 among other things for the early recruitment and training of staff. BreastCheck is confident that the target date of next year for the commencement of roll out to the Southern and Western regions will be met.

Approval has been given for an additional 69 posts for the roll-out of the programme. BreastCheck recently interviewed for Clinical Directors for both regions and has commenced the recruitment process for other essential staff. The notice for the procurement of the construction company for the new clinical units at the South Infirmary/Victoria Hospital, Cork and University College Hospital Galway has been published in the EU Journal and the Design Team is now in the process of short listing applicants. Following the selection of the contractor, construction of the units can commence. On full roll out of the programme, all women in the target age group in every county will have access to breast screening and follow up treatment where appropriate.