asked the Minister for Health if he will state in respect of each of the past five years the number of miniature X-rays carried out by the Mass X-ray Board; the number of cases of pulmonary disease detected by this method; the total cost of the service; the average cost of each X-ray; and if he will indicate the future plans for the board.

As the reply to the information requested by the Deputy calls for a tabular statement, I propose, with your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, to circulate it with the Official Report.

As regards future plans for the board, the policy in relation to mass radiography is under continuous review by the board itself in consultation with my Department and with chief Medical officers of the health boards. In general, the service is designed to meet the specific needs of each area having regard to the epidemiological situation in that area as respects tuberculosis.

Following is the statement:

Mass Radiography.

*Accounts for year ended 31/3/1972 not yet audited.

Will the Minister state whether it is intended to continue this service or to abandon it in view of the fact that under the free hospital outpatient service normal size X-rays are available?

It could be more costly to have an investigation in a hospital than to do the preliminary investigation afforded by the service. We have reviewed the position. The number of mobile units are being reduced from nine to five from 1st January next. The re-organised services will meet adequately the needs of the health boards in so far as the emphasis will now be directed towards selective X-rays of "at-risk" groups.

Is it envisaged that the services will be expanded along other mass-screening lines?

I could not say that.