MARCH 2006

Deputy Cecilia Keaveney TD secures further meeting with Taoiseach on Cancer Services

Donegal North East Deputy Cecilia Keaveney TD, commented on the decision to suspend services for new cancer patients in Letterkenny General Hospital, "Consideration is already occurring in relation to appointing a permanent breast surgeon and it is important that this is brought to a positive conclusion as soon as possible." Deputy Keaveney also said "I put the question to An Tánaiste and Minister for Health, Mary Harney TD, on her plans to improve the delivery of cancer services at Letterkenny General Hospital. I have been informed that the National Hospitals Office is considering the application for a permanent beast surgeon post in Letterkenny General and this decision must not be unduly delayed. I understand that the intention is to provide such a service in a clinical network arrangement with Altnagelvin Hospital, Derry".

Specifically in relation to female cancers and in particular the early detection of cervical cancer, Cecilia Keaveney has been informed that the Health Service Executive have temporary arrangements in place with Altnagelvin Hospital for the processing of all cervical cytology specimens from the HSE North West Area, pending the rollout of the national cervical screening programme. Deputy Keaveney was also informed that a consultant in Histopathology for Letterkenny General is now being recruited. Commenting on the issue, Cecilia said, "The Taoiseach has agreed to meet the four Fianna Fáil TDs for Donegal at my request and this is scheduled to take place in the first week of March. While progress is being made it must not be unduly delayed. I called for the meeting with the Taoiseach to reinforce our position in relation to ensuring Letterkenny General is strengthened and remains the key priority. The focus must remain on this most important issue."

It emerged in the past few days that the Taoiseach, Mr Bertie Ahern TD has also agreed to meet a Fianna Fáil delegation from Donegal South West and Donegal North East to discuss cancer services for Letterkenny General Hospital.

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