Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 April 2004
620 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children if, with regard to the cancer specialists strategy, he will outline for each health board the level of equipment that has been provided and the level of qualified staff that are trained to use the specific equipment; if any equipment cannot be used due to lack of trained staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12027/04]
View answerSince the implementation of the national cancer strategy in 1997, there has been a total cumulative investment of €550 million in the development of appropriate treatment and care services for people with cancer. The benefit of this investment is reflected in the significant increase in staffing and activity which has occurred. For example, the investment has enabled the funding of an additional 91 consultant posts in key areas of cancer care such as medical oncology, radiology, palliative care and general surgeons with a special interest in breast surgery. In addition approximately €90 million has been invested in oncology infrastructure, including specialist equipment in radiation oncology, mammography, radiology and pathology. The recruitment and training of specialist staff and the utilisation of equipment is a matter for individual health boards and the Eastern Regional Health Authority, ERHA.
If the Deputy advises me of any particular area on which he requires further details, I will refer the matter to the appropriate health board or to the ERHA for reply.
