Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 March 2017
377. Deputy Pat The Cope Gallagher asked the Minister for Health if he will confirm that a second breast cancer surgeon has been appointed on a permanent basis at Letterkenny University Hospital; if all necessary medical staff are in place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15245/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Breast Cancer Service at Letterkenny University Hospital operates as a satellite centre of University Hospital Galway. The service is run by a single consultant who also undertakes general surgery at the hospital, and it is augmented by locum consultants and by Galway-based Saolta consultants who travel to carry out clinics in Letterkenny to meet needs arising.
A second breast surgeon has not been appointed on a permanent basis at Letterkenny University Hospital. At present, efforts are being made to recruit a full-time locum consultant surgeon to deal with current demands on the service. Consideration continues to be given to longer-term measures to meet the future requirements of the service and staffing at consultant and other levels will be among the issues to be considered.
I recently met with cancer support groups from the area and I can confirm that the HSE's National Cancer Control Programme, my Department and the Saolta Group are actively engaged in ensuring that a quality breast cancer service will be available in Letterkenny. A further meeting of the involved parties will be held shortly in Letterkenny.
