Vol. 536 No. 2
320 Ms Clune asked the Minister for Health and Children if he has received the report, Cancer Support Services in Ireland, Priorities for Action; if he is in a position to implement its recommendations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14104/01]
The report, Cancer Support Services in Ireland: Priorities for Action, has been submitted to me through the National Cancer Forum. I consider the provision of support services for cancer patients an integral and important part of cancer services. The recommendations of this report are being progressed in the context of the further development of oncology services in line with the principles outlined in the National Cancer Strategy. I provided initial funding totalling £300,000 to the health boards last year to enable them to further enhance counselling and support services. Further funding totalling £350,000 has been allocated to the boards in this year's letter of determination.
Major developments in the treatment and care of patients with cancer have taken place since the launch in November 1996 of the National Cancer Strategy at a cost of £60 million. It is intended to continue to build on these significant developments.
