Charlie O'Connor
Question:251 Mr. O'Connor asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will give assurances in respect of cancer care in the Dublin region detailing services available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9444/03]
Written Answers - Cancer Treatment Services.
The national cancer strategy commenced in 1997. Since then there has been a cumulative additional investment of approximately €400 million in the development of appropriate treatment and care services for people with cancer. This includes €29 million which was provided this year to ensure that we continue to address increasing demands in cancer services in such areas as oncology-haematology services, oncology drug treatments and symptomatic breast disease services.
Since the implementation of the strategy there has been a total additional cumulative investment of €135.4 million in cancer services in the ERHA region. This figure includes additional funding allocated to cancer services in the ERHA in 2003 of €9.78 million as follows: €6.24 million in relation to oncology-haematology services, including oncology drug treatments; €2.65 million to ensure adherence to quality standards as set out in the report of the sub-group of the national cancer forum on the development of services for symptomatic breast disease; €0.75 million for designated national centres for cancer services; and €0.14 million for radiotherapy services in St. Luke's Hospital.
This funding has enabled the appointment of an additional 24 consultant posts, together with support staff in the ERHA region in key areas such as medical oncology, histopathology, radiation oncology, haematology and palliative care.
In recognition of the need to further develop cancer services, the strategy identified the need for the preparation of a new one. The 2003 strategy is being developed by the national cancer forum in conjunction with my Department. It will build on the progress that has been made during the implementation of the first one. The strategy will also set out the key investment areas to be targeted for the development of cancer services in the years to come. It will also make recommendations in relation to the organisation and structure of cancer services nationally.