asked the Minister for Health (a) if there is any provision for the establishment of a cytological research unit in Ireland; (b) if it is reasonable to expect a cyto-diagnostic service to be extended on a regional basis to cover the whole country within 12 months from this date; (c) if he intends to introduce courses in cytology in hospitals having regard to increases in cervical cancer in Ireland in recent years; and (d) if he will make a general policy statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cytological Research Unit.
44.
Mr. O'Malley
As I explained in a reply which I gave in the House on 16th instant, the immediate aim is to establish at St. Kevin's Hospital, Dublin, a centre to provide on a nation-wide basis a mass screening service for the early detection of cervical cancer using the technique of cyto-diagnosis. The information available to me at the moment suggests that, for a population of our size, such a service can be organised effectively and economically on a centralised basis and that regional centres are not necessary. I do not contemplate, however, that the Regional service operated from the Regional Hospital, Galway, should be absorbed by the St. Kevin's Hospital centre.
At this stage it is not possible for me to be specific as to when a countrywide service will be available, but I would hope that as soon as a cytologist is appointed at the St. Kevin's centre, rapid progress will be made. If that hope is realised, there would be no necessity to organise, for hospital staffs, special instruction in the technique of cyto-diagnosis.
Could the Minister say whether a cytologist has been appointed as a result of the recent advertisement or does he know when he will be appointed?
Mr. O'Malley
I do. Some weeks ago an advertisement was inserted in the newspapers. We got only one reply and that was from abroad. The applicant did not turn up for interview and a few weeks ago the advertisement was again put into the newspapers. I am glad to say we have had several applications with which the Local Appointments Commission will deal in due course.
(South Tipperay): Can the Minister state how many of these technicians will be required in order to provide a reasonably comprehensive service?
That is a separate question.