1330. Deputy Ivana Bacik asked the Minister for Health for an update on the replacement of the 14 Linear accelerators, six CT scanners and two MRI units within the St. Luke’s radiation oncology network; and her views on the adequacy of existing equipment given that 85% of this equipment is beyond the internationally recommended lifespan. [65246/26]

The Government is committed to improving cancer care, ensuring better prevention, maintaining improvements in cancer survival rates, and timely access to treatments. The Government acknowledges that appropriate, fit-for-purpose facilities and equipment is critical to the safe and timely delivery of cancer care.

Under the National Cancer Strategy, the Government has already invested €120 million in state-of-the-art radiotherapy facilities in Cork and Galway and 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.

The HSE has set a target that 90% of patients commence their radiotherapy within 15 days of being deemed ready to treat. In 2025 and in 2026 to date, 80% of patients have met this target with four out of five radiation therapy centres performing at 88% or above.

To address future replacement and expansion requirements beyond these projects, the Department of Health and the HSE have established a Strategic Infrastructure Programme for radiation therapy equipment. 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.

With respect to the replacement of the specific equipment referred to in your question, as the Health Service Executive is responsible for the management of healthcare equipment, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly in relation to this matter.