Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)

I am grateful for the opportunity to speak on this debate on cancer services. Everyone, whether speech therapist, social worker, HSE manager, porter, nurse, doctor or politician, has a role to play and a civic responsibility to work to the best international standards. I do not go along with people who refuse to accept responsibility. We need to accept that major mistakes were made if we are to end this problem.

I welcome the publication of the reports on events pertaining to breast cancer services at the Midlands Regional Hospital in Portlaoise. I strongly support the goal of the national cancer control programme of ensuring equitable access to high quality services for patients throughout the country. Every Member of this House should support Professor Keane in his efforts to radically reform our health service in the interest of patients. We have a duty to put patients first, so there should be no fudging on this important issue. I commend Professor Keane for showing courage, leadership and vision on cancer services.

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