Portlaoise hospital surgical reviews to begin tomorrow

The Health Service Executive said this evening tests will begin tomorrow on the 97 women being recalled for surgical review at Portlaoise Hospital.

A spokesperson said they have begun ringing the women concerned and those who can attend will be seen.

Times have been arranged to facilitate the re-examination of all the women involved tomorrow at Portlaoise Hospital.

Meanwhile, the Taoiseach said this afternoon he has full confidence in Minister for Health Mary Harney.

It followed widespread calls for her resignation, including a demand from Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny.

The Labour Party is to put a motion of no confidence in Mary Harney to the Dáil next week, following the latest revelations regarding cancer care at the Midlands Regional Hospital.

The HSE chairman is to initiate a review of the handling of cancer services in Portlaoise.