Published Monday, 05 July 2010
Radiotherapy was amongst the topics discussed as leading politicians from both sides of the border met on Monday at Farmleigh house in Dublin to review government spending.
Taoiseach Brian Cowen said the Irish government will provide part of the funding for the facility, adding that one in three cancer patients in Donegal would be making use of it.
"I think that's another excellent example where mutual benefit derives from co-operation and joint funding in some respects," he said.
The Ulster Cancer Foundation is hoping that the new centre will bring significant benefits to cancer patients living in the north west.
Welcoming the plans, Chief Executive Roisin Foster from the charity said: "Patients living in this area currently face a long trip to Belfast or Dublin for radiotherapy treatment.
"This can cause a financial burden and increase stress and fatigue during an already difficult time.
"The new radiotherapy centre will considerably reduce journey times required for treatment thus enhancing quality of life for many patients.
"It is an excellent example of how practical co-operation, on a cross-border basis, can deliver real benefits for cancer patients in the north west."
The announcement was also greeted by Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness, who expressed his appreciation for the centre which he said would service the people of the north-west and Donegal who have had to travel long distances for treatment.
Mr McGuinness also expressed his "disappointment" that Health Minister Michael McGimpsey did not to attend the council's meeting in Dublin, calling the decision "a mistake".
Irish health minister Mary Harney also didn't attend on Monday.