asked the Minister for Health whether he has received an interim or the final report of the Cancer Consultative Council; and, if so, when he received it, whether he has yet considered it and what action he proposes to take, or has taken, thereon; further, if he will make the report available to members of the Oireachtas.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cancer Consultative Council.
I received the final report of the Consultative Cancer Council on 5th July last and I have considered its recommendations. Acting on these recommendations I have decided to set up a central body which will devote its energies to the establishment of a national cancer service and which in agreement with the bodies, which up to this have done such excellent work in this field, will co-ordinate and supplement the facilities at present available for the diagnosis and treatment of malignant disease. The new body will take the form of a company limited by guarantee.
I have suggested to the members of the new body that, having decided on the most urgent of the recommendations made by the Consultative Cancer Council and having considered the best means by which these recommendations can be implemented, they should formulate a programme or scheme for early execution. I have also informed the members that I will arrange for the transfer from time to time from Hospital Trust Funds of the moneys necessary to meet such of the expenses of the scheme as may be approved by me.
I propose to have copies of the report of the Consultative Cancer Council made available to the library of the House.
Can the Minister tell the House how many members there are of the new board and who they are; and, further, will the Minister say whether they have power to co-opt further members; and, if not, will he take steps to see that they will, so that they can get the advice of men who know most about the subject?
I do not know if the House would like me to read out the names; if so, I will. Otherwise, I will submit them to the Deputy privately. In relation to co-option, they have power to co-opt with my consent. further members if they so wish.