asked the Minister for Health if he is satisfied that adequate use is being made of the new linear accelerator in St Luke's Hospital, which was purchased by means of voluntary contributions from the public; the reason it is not fully operational at present; the plans he has to bring it into full operation; and when it will be fully used.
Written Answers. - Use of Linear Accelerator.
12.
I am concerned that the new linear accelerator at St Luke's Hospital which was provided by way of a capital grant from my Department has not been brought into use. Since its installation in October 1984 several efforts have been made to reach agreement with the radiographers on bringing the machine into operation. To date these efforts have not succeeded. A further conciliation conference is taking place in the Labour Court today and I am hopeful that a satisfactory outcome will be arrived at. In view of the significant capital cost of the machine and its role in the treatment of cancer patients I am determined that the existing situation will not be allowed to continue and that the machine will be put into operation. Alternative options on how this might be brought about will have to be considered if a satisfactory solution is not arrived at quickly in St. Luke's Hospital.