Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 December 2004
64 Dr. Cowley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the progress she has made on the all-Ireland rollout of the BreastCheck programme; when the BreastCheck programme will be rolled out to the rest of the country; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31857/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe 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 and BreastCheck are fully committed to an expeditious rollout of the programme. Detailed planning for 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 immediate concerns or symptoms should contact her GP who, where appropriate, will refer her to the symptomatic services in her region.
