Vol. 486 No. 6
211 Miss Coughlan asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress, if any, in providing oncology services for people in the north west in Altnagelvin hospital, Derry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3383/98]
The North-Western Health Board is currently developing proposals for the provision of cancer services in its region in the context of the national cancer strategy. As part of this process, the board is examining how to structure oncology services in a way that best meets the needs of the local population. The board will pay particular attention to the need for convenient access to oncology services in both Letterkenny and Sligo.
Discussions on the structuring of oncology services are under way and my Department is being kept informed of developments. When these discussions have been finalised, the board will bring proposals to my Department for consideration. I have set aside money under the national cancer strategy to fund the provision of oncology services in the North-Western Health Board area. I am committed to supporting the development of appropriate services, in conjunction with the North-Western Health Board.
