Michael Lowry (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I raise the issue of community cancer support centres. A diagnosis of cancer can bring with it a myriad of changes. Life can suddenly become a roller-coaster of medical appointments and hospital stays, being unable to work, financial worries, a loss of independence, unintended isolation and a tsunami of fear and uncertainty. These all-consuming changes come at a time when a person is already feeling vulnerable, worried and sometimes even angry. Their world and that of their families and loved ones become plagued with questions and concerns. In the midst of these changes, patients and those close to them can become overwhelmed. Their minds are flooded with worries and fears that they often feel unable to discuss with one another. Questions that need answers go unspoken and worries stay silent for fear of magnifying this worry in others. Individually and collectively, they are crying out for support. They simply want someone who will listen and hear their fears, someone who can guide them along the unfamiliar path on which they find themselves and walk with them when times are tough or overwhelming. Medical professionals cannot adequately offer this support. Demands on their time do not allow them to do so.

For more than 30 years, community cancer support centres have been providing this invaluable and vital service in many locations across the country. These centres are partnered with and recognised by the Irish Cancer Society for the instrumental role they play in the lives of patients, their carers and their families. The national cancer strategy identifies community cancer support centres as a key service for cancer patients. They provide psychological, emotional, educational and practical support in a warm and welcoming environment to people with cancer and those who care for them. Their services are confidential, professional and caring and are provided free of charge. They offer a supportive role during and after a journey with cancer. They spend quality and precious time with all those in a family who have been impacted by their loved one's cancer diagnosis. It would be impossible to estimate the magnitude of the role they play, yet despite this, community cancer support centres have operated as registered charities since their inception and rely solely on fundraising. They received no designated funding until this year, when they were awarded €3 million in a one-off fund from the Department of Health to support the 16 centres they operate across the country, including Suir Haven, Thurles, North Tipperary Hospice, Roscrea Outreach Centre and the Circle of Friends cancer support centre in Tipperary town. This funding has allowed them to sustain and increase the incalculable role they play. However, the demand and the proven need for community cancer support centres will not end in 2024. One-off funding cannot sustain the demand for such services.

The community cancer support services have more than proven their worth. Will the Government support their call for annual funding to enable this service to continue its crucial work?

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