Jackie Cahill (Tipperary, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for the positive response. I do not have to say that she recognises what the cancer centres around the country do. The centre set up in Tipperary town and its work are an example to any cancer support group. The centre expects its number of users to double in 2023. I acknowledge that the door is open for consultation with the HSE and that the Minister of State will use her influence to bring the negotiations to a successful conclusion.

When making my opening remarks, I made a point on funding certainty. An organisation like the centre in question cannot wait until December each year to see whether it will get funding for the next calendar year. There needs to be certainty about its funding stream. It got funding from the national lottery in the past. Obviously, there will always be fundraising. That will not be an issue for the centre as there is a great community spirit. The centre was founded by cancer survivors, who comprise its hub. The first time I went to the centre, which was when it was operating out of what was virtually a derelict building, I met a young lady who, thankfully, is still at the hub of the centre, has survived cancer and is in good health. She has always been a driving force behind the centre. There are many cancer survivors. People diagnosed with cancer should have someone to talk to about financial issues and problems they may have as a result of their illness. Mental issues also arise. There are so many obstacles to overcome and hills to climb when people get the dreaded news that they have been diagnosed with cancer. However, the centre is playing a pivotal role in supporting those diagnosed with cancer. The Minister of State has committed to doing her best to ensure funding is secured for the centre.

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