On the occasion of the publication of the spending Estimates for 2000, I announced the allocation of £3 million revenue funding and £3 million capital funding for the commencement of a programme for the development of renal dialysis services. This programme, which I hope to see completed over three years at an estimated total cost of £20 million, will be aimed at achieving a structured enhancement of the capacity of the system to meet existing and anticipated growth in demand for renal services in coming years. It will ensure the equitable availability of treatment choices for dialysis patients. This year's investment is primarily directed at addressing immediate requirements that are apparent from my Department's review of services in the area. In this context, a sum of £350,000 has been allocated to the South Eastern Health Board to enable the board to meet demand for haemodialysis places from patients in the region who have previously been unable to access a service locally.