Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 May 2026
1016. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Health if she is aware of the recent reporting that over 80% of Ireland's radiotherapy machines require immediate or imminent replacement; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33982/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra1017. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Health her plans to ensure there is adequate provision for cancer patients seeking radiotherapy given recent reports that over 80% of Ireland's radiotherapy machines require immediate or imminent replacement; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33983/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra1018. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Health her plans to upgrade radiotherapy machines nationwide; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33984/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 1016, 1017 and 1018 together.
I am committed to improving cancer care, ensuring better prevention, maintaining improvements in cancer survival rates, and timely access to treatments. I would also like to acknowledge that appropriate, fit-for-purpose facilities and equipment is critical to the safe and timely delivery of cancer care.
Under the current National Cancer Strategy, the Government has already allocated €120 million direct investment in state-of-the-art Radiation Oncology centres in Cork and Galway to address radiotherapy equipment needs.
The HSE advises that the typical lifespan of a LINAC is 10 - 15 years, although some can be used for longer depending on many factors, including the manufacturer support.
Funding has been allocated in the HSE Capital Plan 2026 to progress a linear accelerator (LINAC) replacement programme currently in place across St Luke’s Rathgar, St. James’s and Beaumont hospitals (SLRON) along with a phased expansion at Beaumont hospital. The business case for SLRON replacement programme has been approved by the HSE and in line with public procurement requirements and Infrastructure Guidelines, the HSE are now progressing the pre-tender design, planning and procurement strategy for the SLRON programme, with a view to going out to tender at the earliest practicable date.
The main works project for Phase 2 of Beaumont expansion went to tender on 20 April, with a current tender submission deadline of 05 June 2026. An enabling project (ramp) is currently on site and due to complete in June. Despite the complexity of the programme of work, current estimates project the installation of all replacement machines across St Luke's Radiation Oncology Network will be complete by the end of 2030.
To address future replacement needs, the Department of Health and the HSE are currently developing a Strategic Infrastructure Programme to plan for replacement and expansion at public Radiation Oncology facilities. The Department will shortly engage with relevant stakeholders to advance this work.
This centralised planning and subsequent oversight in implementation will enable cost-effective procurement, efficient delivery of enabling works, and alignment with the National Cancer Strategy and Sláintecare, supporting sustainable, high-quality radiotherapy services nationwide.
It should be noted that in the context of the HSE's target that 90% of patients commence their radiotherapy within 15 days of being deemed ready to treat, in 2025, 79% of patients met this target, with four out of five radiation therapy centres performing at 85% or above.
