Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 November 2016
384. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Health his plans to introduce cancer trial research units in hospitals to complement the current number of 14 located nationally; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35708/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraSince 2005, the Health Research Board (HRB), a statutory agency under the aegis of my Department, has invested approximately €53 million in the development of a network of cancer clinical trials in hospitals across Ireland. The HRB funding is provided to Cancer Trials Ireland (CTI) to support clinical trials at hospital sites.
CTI is the largest collaborative cancer research infrastructure in Ireland. The majority of oncologists and haematologists in Ireland are active participants, as well as research specialists such as research nurses and translational researchers. Decisions on participation in cancer clinical trials are made by CTI following discussions with clinicians in relevant hospitals.
