Cancer review to focus on lab quality

The Government’s cervical cancer tests scandal review will examine serious fears that the State failed to ensure the quality of the labs to which it outsourced services — but may delay its findings until the end of June.

The Irish Examiner has learned the tendering and outsourcing controversy will be central to the review’s terms of reference when they are brought to Cabinet today amid claims officials prioritised getting the service for the cheapest price.

In plans to be agreed today, as it emerged that thousands who phoned the HSE’s emergency cervical check helpline will have to wait until the weekend to be contacted, Health Minister Simon Harris will seek cabinet approval for the scoping review which will ultimately recommend if a commission of investigation is needed.