There have now been nine cases where women have been diagnosed with breast cancer following a previous all-clear test at Midland General Hospital in Portlaoise, it emerged today.
Fine Gael health spokesman Dr James Reilly said the figure was confirmed to him by Minister for Health Mary Harney in the Dail.
Dr Reilly said the Minister had also confirmed during Dáil questions that the review of the errors in breast cancer diagnoses at Portlaoise is being conducted by a former member of the interview panel at the hospital and he said this suggested a potential conflict of interest.
"The Minister confirmed today that over 3,000 mammograms were reviewed and nine women have now been diagnosed with breast cancer.
"After the initial seven diagnoses, six women have been waiting an unacceptably long time for their results and now two of them have had their worst fears confirmed. I welcome the assurance that these women are now receiving treatment, including counselling, and I wish them a speedy and full recovery." He said.
Dr Reilly said the Minister confirmed to him that Dr Ann O'Doherty, who is preparing the report on
Portlaoise hospital, was a member of the interview panel which selected the consultant radiologist who is now on administrative leave.
"This is not the first time in recent weeks that a Government Minister has appointed a person with a potential conflict of interest to carry out an important investigation. It will certainly undermine confidence in the review and I consider it ill-advised in the extreme on the Minister's part. Fine Gael's calls for an independent enquiry should now be heeded."