Martin to review Limerick cancer unit plan

MINISTER for Health and Children Micheál Martin has ordered a re-examination of the proposal for a private cancer-treatment facility in Limerick.

Last night, a spokesperson for the minister said he was seeking clarification of a number of points in the plan submitted by a private charity, the Mid-Western Hospitals Development Trust.

Last evening, Mr Martin and representatives of the charity met face-to-face to discuss the plan for which there has been growing support in the mid-western region.

The minister’s spokesperson said no decision had been reached, and a further discussion would be conducted with the charity once the Mid-Western Health Board had examined certain aspects of the plan.

The charity says it has E6.1 million to build a radiotherapy centre in the grounds of Limerick Regional Hospital, and has the backing of the Mid-Western Health Board for the venture.

It has also secured planning permission.

But the trust has endured months of frustration as it waits for the minister to indicate whether or not he will give the project the green light.

The trust, which was founded in 1986, has a solid track record of funding equipment for local hospitals.

The 6.1 million available would fund the construction of the centre, which, if approval were granted, could be up and running within two years.