9. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Taoiseach when the Cabinet committee on health will next meet. [32050/26]

Sentiment score: 0.00

There is still no PET scanner operating in the public system in Galway or across the wider western region. We are being told it will be at least 2033 before a PET scanner will be provided for University Hospital Galway. This is completely unacceptable because this imaging technology is vital for monitoring cancer patients for cancer diagnosis. Patients are being forced to travel long distances to access these scans. They are often referred to private operators at significant cost to the State. They cost millions of euro each year. Patients in the west should not have to travel for essential diagnostic services that are available on-site in other major hospitals. We should have equal access to care across the country. We need a PET scanner, and we need the promised new cancer centre at UHG as well as other infrastructural improvements. Will the Taoiseach intervene to expedite the delivery of this critical infrastructure and equipment for the west to ensure there is equality of care for cancer patients across the State?

Sentiment score: -0.11