Alliance Health spokesperson Paula Bradshaw MLA has welcomed the launch of an investment in diagnostic services known as “Laboratory Information Management System” (LIMS).

This will cover cancer and blood services as well as helping with demand arising from COVID-19.

The South Belfast MLA stated: “I welcome this key investment to move our health service into the future. It is entirely in line with the transformation as envisaged by the Bengoa panel.

“As Chair of the Assembly’s All-Party Group on Cancer, this will go at least some way to addressing widespread concerns about the backlog in diagnosis and treatment.

“I would therefore urge the system to be rolled out as quickly as possible across all Trusts.”