Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 133: To ask the Minister for Health and Children her plans to introduce routine screening to detect bowel cancer; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6185/07]

Gay Mitchell (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 142: To ask the Minister for Health and Children her plans to introduce routine screening for colonic cancer; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6197/07]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 133 and 142 together.

The aim of the National Cancer Control Strategy, which was published in June 2006, is to reduce our cancer incidence, morbidity and mortality rates relative to other Member States of the European Union. The Strategy encompasses all aspects of cancer control, including prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment, supportive and palliative care. This Government is committed to investing significantly in the implementation of the Strategy. I have made available an additional €20.5m this year for cancer control. This is an increase of 74% on the comparable 2006 investment.

The Health Service Executive (HSE) is establishing a National Cancer Control Programme to manage, organise and deliver cancer control on a whole population basis. The Programme will have a strong emphasis on prevention and early detection, integrated across primary, hospital, supportive and palliative care.

Evidence based population based screening programmes are an essential element of the Strategy. I established a National Cancer Screening Service Board on 1 January this year which amalgamates BreastCheck and the Irish Cervical Screening Programmes to deliver both programmes nationally. The total allocation to the new Service is €33m; this is a 71% increase on the 2006 allocation to the services. The Service will also advise on the implementation of a national colorectal screening programme, specifically on the population to be screened, at what intervals screening should take place, and the requirements for a quality assured and well organised cost effective symptomatic service.