Sinn Féin MLA Linda Dillon has said the conclusion of the Southern Trust’s review into nearly 17,500 smear tests is an ‘important step’.
The Mid Ulster MLA said:
“The conclusion of this review is an important step, and I will be meeting with the trust to discuss the findings.
“It is also reassuring that an independent expert review will now examine these findings. This must be conducted efficiently and as quickly as possible.
“It’s vital that we have proper oversight of key health services such as cervical screening, and that women have confidence in their results.
“I will also be asking the health minister for an update on the implementation of HPV testing and its oversight.
“Cervical screenings can be life saving as well as helping to identify cancers in early stages, and I would take this opportunity to encourage women to attend this key health test when invited.”