209 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Health and Children when the expert group examining radiotherapy in the country as a whole will report back to him. [6376/02]

212 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Health and Children his views on the trauma being experienced by patients from the south east region who have to travel to Dublin for radiotherapy treatment; his further views on whether the duress involved exacerbates the patients' health conditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6379/02]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 209 and 212 together.

The work of the Expert Group on the Development of Radiotherapy Services is at an advanced stage and the provision of additional services for radiotherapy treatment will be considered in the context of its report. I have been advised that all health boards, including the South-Eastern Health Board, are being afforded the opportunity to meet with the group.

Because of the importance and the complexity of the work, it is not possible to give an exact date for the report of the expert group but it is anticipated that its work will be completed in the near future.

210 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Health and Children the average waiting time for a patient in the south east region to be called for radiotherapy treatment. [6377/02]

Responsibility for the provision of services for patients in the south east region is a matter for the South-Eastern Health Board. My Department has therefore asked the chief executive of the South-Eastern Health Board to investigate the matters raised by the Deputy and to reply to him directly.

211 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Health and Children the costs of linear accelerators such as those used in the radiotherapy treatment of cancer patients. [6378/02]

The cost of a linear accelerator can range from €1 million to €2.5 million and is dependent on the treatment energy specified and the accessories required for the type of service to be provided.

This cost range is for a linear accelerator only and does not include any building or additional facilities and equipment which may be required in order to provide a comprehensive service for the radiotherapy treatment of cancer patients.

Question No. 212 answered with Question No. 209.