I propose to take Questions Nos. 207 to 209, inclusive, together.
Under the National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP), there are four managed cancer control networks and eight cancer centres. The designation of cancer centres aims to ensure that patients receive the highest quality care while at the same time allowing local access to services, where appropriate. University Hospital Galway (UHG) and the Midwestern Regional Hospital, Limerick, are the two cancer centres in the Managed Cancer Control Network for the HSE West. Initial breast cancer diagnostic and surgical services for the HSE West region are now provided at these two centres or at Letterkenny General Hospital under an outreach service provided from UHG in conjunction with staff at Letterkenny. Breast reconstruction surgery is not provided at Letterkenny. Women in the area requiring breast reconstruction undergo this surgery at UHG.
Due to industrial action affecting the Health Service Executive, it is not possible for the Executive to supply the information requested by the Deputy in regard to the delivery of services. However, I can state that area of residence has no impact on access to breast reconstruction surgical services at Galway. The National Treatment Purchase Fund arranges treatment for patients who have been on a surgical waiting list, including breast reconstruction, for more than three months. It is open to such patients or anyone acting on their behalf to contact the NTPF directly in relation to their case.