The report, The Development of Radiation Oncology Services in Ireland, that I launched in October 2003 is a most authoritative analysis of radiation oncology and provides a detailed plan for the future development of radiation oncology services nationally. The Government has accepted the recommendations of the report and the development of these services on the lines recommended is the single most important priority in cancer services in the acute setting. The report recommends two treatment centres located in the eastern region, one serving the southern part of the region and adjacent catchment areas and one serving the northern part of the region and adjacent catchment areas. I have asked the chief medical officer of my Department to advise on the optimum location of radiation treatment facilities in Dublin. A detailed request for submissions for issue to potential host hospitals is being finalised. The chief medical officer will apply the guidelines established by the group with the support of the hospital planning office of my Department and international experts. Several international organisations, expert in the field of oncology, including radiation oncology, have been asked to nominate experts. I expect the office of the chief medical officer to issue this request shortly.