Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 April 2005
134 Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children, further to Parliamentary Question No. 793 of 29 September 2004, if she will report on the progress to date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13534/05]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe former health board executive commissioned an international expert in cervical screening to examine the feasibility and implications of the national roll-out of a cervical screening programme. The examination included an evaluation of the current pilot programme in the mid-western area, quality assurance, laboratory capacity and organisation and the establishment of national governance arrangements. The expert's report was published on 14 December 2004.
I am committed to the national roll-out of a cervical screening programme in line with international best practice. International evidence demonstrates the proven efficacy of programmes that are effectively managed and meet quality assurance standards. Careful planning and consultation with relevant professional and advocacy stakeholders is required before I make definite policy decisions on a national roll-out.
My Department is now consulting with the Irish College of General Practitioners, An Bord Altranais, the Academy of Medical Laboratory Science, the Institute of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland, the faculty of pathology of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland, the Women's Health Council and the Irish Cancer Society on the report. The consultation with these key stakeholders is well advanced and will be completed in a matter of weeks.
