Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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Question 61: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the next set of priorities under the national strategy for cancer control. [13415/11]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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A Strategy for Cancer Control in Ireland, containing 55 recommendations, was published in 2006 and significant progress has been made in implementing these recommendations. The focus of the Strategy is on the development of a culture of quality, measurement, outcomes, education and research and increased service capacity. The National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) was established by the HSE in 2007 to give effect to the Strategy and is working to ensure that designated cancer centres for individual tumour types have adequate case volumes, expertise and concentration of multi-disciplinary specialist skills to optimise patient outcomes.

The NCCP has made considerable progress in centralising surgical services into the eight designated cancer centres and in the reorganisation and enhancement of services. As well as the centralisation of breast cancer diagnosis and surgery, its reorganisation of lung and prostate cancer diagnosis and surgery is almost complete, including the establishment of Rapid Access Diagnostic Clinics in most cancer centres. In addition, significant progress has been made in the reorganisation of rectal cancer surgery; a National Centre for pancreatic surgery has been established in St Vincent's with a satellite unit in Cork; and brachytherapy for ocular cancer is now in place in St Luke's Hospital in conjunction with the Royal Victoria Eye & Ear Hospital.

In relation to screening, BreastCheck provides free mammograms to all women aged 50-64. A priority in the Programme for Government is that screening will be extended to cover the age range 65 - 69. CervicalCheck provides free smear tests to women aged 25 to 60 years. The national HPV vaccination programme commenced in May 2010. During 2010 all girls in second year of school and those who entered first year in September were offered HPV vaccination. I recently announced plans for a catch-up programme for girls in secondary school, as also provided for in the Programme for Government. This will result in all unvaccinated girls in the senior cycle of second level schools being offered the HPV vaccine. In addition, preparations for the introduction in 2012 of a national colorectal cancer screening programme are at an advanced stage.

Notwithstanding the achievements above, the further reorganisation of acute cancer services is a work in progress and will continue to be given high priority. Lifestyle choices can reduce the risk factors for many diseases including cancers. This issue spans a number of policy areas across my Department. In this context the Office of the Chief Medical Officer is preparing a framework for Public Health Policy. This initiative will form the basis of our future public health policy and health care programmes. It will promote healthier lifestyles, as well as improving the environment where we live and work. It will also help prevent the emergence of risk factors and reduce chronic diseases and their burden to families and society.