Liam Twomey
Question:96 Dr. Twomey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the target dates for the rollout of BreastCheck nationally; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2332/05]
View answerTuesday, 1 February 2005
Questions (98, 99)
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Question:129 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when the rollout of BreastCheck services throughout the regions will be completed; if she will address the concerns expressed recently that a further delay is anticipated in regard to its extension to the south and west; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2694/05]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 96 and 129 together.
The rollout of the national screening programme to the remaining counties is a major priority in the development of cancer services. This will ensure that all women in the 50 to 64 age group in every county 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 throughout the country.
My Department is considering proposals for the development of the two static clinical units at Cork and Galway. It is intended that both facilities will be progressed simultaneously, under the capital investment framework for 2005 to 2009, and design briefs in respect of both have been completed. The capital funding involved in both facilities has already been indented under the framework. It is anticipated that the advertisement for the appointment of a design team will be placed in the EU Journal in the coming weeks. As is normal, tenders for the construction element of these projects will not be sought until the design phase is completed.
Any woman irrespective of her age or residence who has immediate concerns or symptoms should contact her GP who, where appropriate, will refer her to the symptomatic services in her region.