Children's hospital in Belfast to get MRI scanner

The health minister has announced an investment of £2.75m for an MRI scanner at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children.

The Health and Social Care Board will provide ongoing running costs of £1.9m per year.

A further £2m raised through the Scanner Appeal will be used towards the purchase and running costs.

The scanner will be used in the diagnosis of a wide range of medical conditions, including cancer.

"Ensuring access to appropriate diagnostic services is essential in the treatment of children. That is why the provision of MRI scanner services within the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children is a real priority," said Mr Poots.

"I am delighted to announce that I have conditionally approved the business case in respect of the scanner and will invest £2.75m from my department's capital expenditure programme for this project.

"I would like to thank and congratulate all those who have been involved in raising much needed funds for the Scanner Appeal. This partnership working will ensure this vital service is delivered and your commitment will make a real difference to the children and families in need of these facilities."

Work will now begin in securing the MRI scanner service for the children's hospital.

It is expected that work will be completed in 2013/14.

The total capital cost of the MRI Scanner is estimated at £4m with additional running costs per year of £1.9m.