A new radioptherapy centre is to be built on the site of Altnagelvin Hospital, Derry, it has been revealed.

The announcement was made by Health Minister Michael McGimpsey during an assembly debate on Tuesday.

Currently the only radiography unit in Northern Ireland is in Belfast, and patients have to travel for treatment. The centre was planned and built to meet the radiotherapy needs of the population of Northern Ireland up to 2015. But, Mr McGimpsey said he hoped to have the new facililty up and running by then.

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"Today's announcement will mean that by providing radiotherapy services in Belfast and Londonderry, the needs of the Northern Ireland population will be met beyond 2015," he said.

"I have discussed this issue with a range of public representatives and community groups from the northwest. I also recognise the potential for cross border co-operation in the development of this resource.

"I have now instructed the health boards and the Western Trust to develop a business case for this development as a matter of urgency. Today's announcement will mean that, by providing radiotherapy services in Belfast and Londonderry, the needs of the Northern Ireland population will be met beyond 2015.

"It is also proof of my commitment to providing high quality and accessible cancer services to the entire population."

(VB/JM)