Lucinda Creighton (Dublin South East, Fine Gael)
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Question 191: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if the State has unfettered ownership of the site occupied by St. Luke's Cancer Hospital, Rathgar, Dublin 6; if the board of St. Luke's have a legal say in the future disposal of the land; if there are restrictions on the use of the land; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34967/07]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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It is important to note that the transfer of services from St. Luke's Hospital to new facilities at St. James's Hospital is not due to take place for a number of years. In the meantime, two additional linear accelerators will be commissioned at St. Luke's in early 2008 and two replacement linear accelerators will be commissioned later in 2008. These will provide much needed interim capacity pending the roll out of the National Plan for Radiation Oncology.

The decision to transfer services from St. Luke's was taken by the Government in the context of its consideration of the National Plan for Radiation Oncology Services. The decision is based on expert advice and is designed to ensure that radiation oncology is integrated with all other aspects of cancer care, including surgery and medical oncology. This is in line with best international practice. I am convinced that this model will provide better patient centred treatment with improved quality of service and outcome for patients. The Board of St. Luke's Hospital and its Executive Management Team are fully committed to supporting the Government's decision in relation to the development of radiation oncology.

No decisions have yet been taken in relation to the future use of the site and facilities at St. Luke's. However, I intend to ensure that these resources are utilised in the best interest of the health services. I am having enquiries made regarding the legal questions raised by the Deputy in relation to the site and will write to her as soon as possible.