Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
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Question 87: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if she will arrange an early meeting with an association (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19159/08]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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The Medical Laboratory Scientists Association (MLSA) has requested a meeting with me to discuss their concerns about the future of public cytology laboratories, following the recent decision by the National Cancer Screening Service (NCSS) to opt for a preferred bidder from the United States.

I understand that the Association is in discussion with both the Health Service Executive (HSE) and the NCSS about this issue. The National Hospitals Office (NHO) of the HSE has a commitment to staff currently employed in cytology services, and has met with their staff representative. Any decision regarding employees will be addressed after the National Cancer Screening Service has completed the procurement process.

Since the concerns raised by the MLSA are matters for the HSE, I do not consider that a meeting with the Association would be appropriate.