Michael Harty (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

In my experience of referring patients on, I always recommend people go to the public system because all the back-up services and specialist services, the specialist nurses and ancillary services that are needed are all available. I do not want to throw any dark light on private care.

However, the public system gives much more comprehensive care in respect of cancer. In respect of the prevention of cancer, we also have a strong section in the report about health promotion and protection. That should start at school. Children should be educated on healthy lifestyles, diet, exercise, smoking and alcohol, which are huge contributors to cancer. It would appear to me that the uptake of cervical screening and mammography is poor, in the region of 50% to 70%. That is disappointing for a population-based preventive measure. What does Dr. Coffey think are the main factors at play?