203. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Health her plans to ensure the timely replacement of linear accelerator machines for radiotherapy. [73018/26]

The Government recognises the importance of maintaining modern radiation oncology infrastructure to ensure patients have timely access to safe, high-quality radiotherapy services.

Under the National Cancer Strategy €120 million has been invested in state-of-the-art radiotherapy facilities in Cork and Galway. In addition, over €15.5 million in capital funding was allocated in 2026 to progress an equipment replacement programme across St Luke’s Radiation Oncology Network, including a phased expansion at Beaumont Hospital.

The preliminary business case for the replacement programme was approved by the HSE in April 2026 and the project is now progressing to Detailed Business Case stage. In line with public procurement requirements, pre-tender design, planning and procurement work is underway. Subject to the necessary approvals and a successful procurement process, the HSE intends to progress to construction from 2027, with installation of all replacement machines across the network currently projected to be complete by the end of 2030.

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.