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The North's Deputy
First Minister Designate, Martin McGuinness, has
been informed of the urgent need for a satellite
radiation unit for cancer patients in the North
West.
The Sinn Fein MP and MLA received the briefing from
local campaign group Co-operating for Cancer Care
North West (CCCNW) during a meeting held at his
request on Saturday in Letterkenny.
CCCNW spokesperson, Noelle Duddy said: "We are
delighted that Mr. McGuinness recognises the
importance of the work being done by us and we are
impressed by the urgency he is placing on meeting us
to get a first hand understanding of our campaign
issues.
"Mr. McGuinness, by asking to meet with us, is
demonstrating the respect his party is giving to us
here in Donegal, as we campaign for better public
healthcare for cancer patients in the North West.”
Other items discussed included the provision of
radiation services in Belfast for Donegal patients;
feasibility regarding mobile mammography services
for women aged 40 to 49 and 69 years+ via the
voluntary sector in the border counties and improved
transport for all patients required to travel long
distances for treatment.
“We recognise that either Altnagelvin Hospital or
Letterkenny General Hospital is a suitable site for
a public satellite radiation unit in the North West.
However, it cannot be both.
"Co-operation between both departments of health and
both health executives will be required to reach an
agreed decision as to which hospital will host
radiation services for the betterment of cancer
patients' care in the North West.
It is very important that this unit offers all
patients equal access to treatment according to
need," added Culdaff-based Ms. Duddy.
CCCNW also asked Mr. McGuinness to contact both
health ministers to immediately set a date for round
table talks with all bodies with an interest in and
responsibility for providing radiation services to
the North West.
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