Written answers

Tuesday, 28 November 2006

Department of Health and Children

Cancer Screening Programme

10:00 am

Photo of Caoimhghín Ó CaoláinCaoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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Question 279: To ask the Minister for Health and Children when it is intended to restore the free cervical cancer screening unit in a health centre (details supplied) in Dublin 22; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40355/06]

Photo of Mary HarneyMary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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A cervical screening service at the public health centre referred to by the Deputy has ceased for clinical governance reasons. However, a nurse led cervical testing clinic is provided by the Coombe Women's Hospital, without charge, one evening per week. Women do not require a GP referral to avail of this service.

The national roll-out of the Irish Cervical Screening Programme (ICSP) will commence next year. Significant preparatory work is well underway involving the introduction of new and improved cervical tests, improved quality assurance training and the preparation of a national population register. The plan is to have cervical screening managed as a national call/recall programme via effective governance structures that provide overall leadership and direction, in terms of quality assurance, accountability and value for money. All elements of the programme, call/recall, smear taking, laboratories and treatment services must be quality assured, organised and managed to deliver a single integrated service. Additional revenue funding of €5 million has been allocated in 2007 for the roll-out of the Programme.

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