Eamon Gilmore
Question:319 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Health and Children the arrangements he has made to provide for a national screening service for prostate cancer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25515/02]
Written Answers. - Cancer Screening Programme.
Since 1997 more than €103 million has been invested directly in the development of cancer services under the national cancer strategy. An additional sum of €29 million is being allocated in 2003 for cancer services. In recognition of the need to further develop cancer services, the national health strategy has identified a requirement to prepare a new national cancer strategy for the period 2003-2010. This plan is currently being prepared by the National Cancer Forum in conjunction with my Department and will set out the key areas to be targeted for the development of cancer services.
As part of this work, a sub-group of the National Cancer Forum has recently been established on generic screening. This multi-disciplinary group is currently reviewing all issues relating to screening, including examining specific diseases such as prostate and colorectal cancer. The group's recommendations will inform the development of the new National Cancer Strategy 2003.