John Perry (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 179: To ask the Minister for Health and Children when she expects that the implementation plan for the next cancer strategy will be published; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35518/06]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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The National Cancer Control Strategy encompasses all aspects of cancer, including prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment, supportive and palliative care. My objective is to develop an integrated cancer control programme based on:

evidence of what works to prevent and treat cancer;

standards that assure quality in all aspects of cancer control; and

fairness, so that all patients, irrespective of county, region or personal financial means, can be assured of the best cancer care.

Our efforts to prevent cancer will include societal and public policy responses to reduce smoking and alcohol misuse and improve diet and exercise. I have written to the Minister for Finance on fiscal measures to reduce the consumption of tobacco. Heads of a Bill are being prepared for consideration by Government to regulate the use of sunbeds, including prohibiting their use by those under 16.

I will shortly establish a National Cancer Screening Service to amalgamate BreastCheck and the Irish Cervical Screening Programme (ICSP) to deliver both programmes nationally. BreastCheck will commence national roll-out next year. It is my goal to have the ICSP rolled out nationally by 2008, based on an affordable model. The Service will also advise in relation to a colorectal cancer screening programme.

My Department is working closely with the Health Service Executive and the National Development Finance Agency to progress the delivery of the National Radiation Oncology Plan. I have approved the provision of two additional linear accelerators at St. Luke's Hospital to provide much needed interim capacity pending the roll out of the national plan. I expect these services to commence late next year. Last week I also announced the approval of two radiation oncology facilities at Beaumont and St. James's Hospitals, comprising of two linear accelerators and associated treatment planning at each site, to be delivered in early 2009.

The HSE is establishing a National Cancer Control Programme that will build on the significant investment that has been made in the development of cancer control since 1997. A Programme Director, at national level, will be accountable for all HSE cancer control activities. A single national budget for all cancer control activities will be developed. The Programme will facilitate national standards for equity and access and will maximise ambulatory care. The HSE will establish four Managed Cancer Control Networks to deliver the Programme. Clinical leaders in oncology will be appointed to lead the delivery of quality multi-disciplinary care. I intend to invest substantially in cancer control based on the reform programme I have outlined.