The issue of the assessment of cervical smear tests in the Southern Health Board is a matter for that board. I have asked the board to respond direct to the Deputy in relation to the options of having the smears sent elsewhere for assessment and that of the Mercy Hospital taking some of the cases awaiting attention at the cervical cytology laboratory in Cork University Hospital.
With a view to facilitating the board in meeting the demands for smear test analysis, my Department approved the establishment of four new posts, i.e. three medical laboratory scientists, and one medical laboratory assistant, for the cervical cytology laboratory at Cork University Hospital in May 2002.
I should point out that I am committed to facilitating a reduction in the waiting times for cervical smear test results. In this regard, my Department recently approved the piloting by the phase one cervical screening programme of a proposed contingency plan to assist in overcoming capacity problems in the cervical cytology laboratories. This plan involves the contracting out of cervical smears to a laboratory abroad subject to compliance with the requirements set out in the 1999 document, Quality Assurance Guidelines for the Irish National Cervical Screening Programme. I am advised that arrangements are at preparatory stage, involving visits to potential external laboratories to check compliance with standards.