Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 November 2004
195 Mr. M. Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the BreastCheck programme in the mid-west region; the way in which the results compare with other regions; the findings of same; and when a screening service will be introduced in that area. [31084/04]
View answerThe national breast screening programme commenced in March 2000 and now covers the Eastern Regional Health Authority, Midland Health Board, North Eastern Health Board and part of the South Eastern Health Board regions. The national roll-out of the programme to the remaining counties in the country is a major priority in the development of cancer services. This will ensure that all women in the 50 to 64 age group throughout the country will have access to breast screening and follow up treatment where appropriate.
A capital investment of approximately €20 million has been approved to construct and equip two static clinical units, one in Cork and the other in Galway. This investment will also ensure that mobile units are available to screen women in the relevant age group in the remaining parts of the country, including the mid-western region.
Detailed planning of the units is progressing as a matter of priority. A design brief will be completed shortly and it is expected that a design team will be in place early next year. The design, construction and commissioning of the units will take approximately two and a half years. Any woman, irrespective of her age or residence, who has concerns about breast cancer should contact her GP who, where appropriate, will refer her to the symptomatic services in her region.
My Department has asked the director of BreastCheck to examine the request for regional data analysis and to respond directly to the Deputy.
