Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent) | Oireachtas source

In what is my last-ever intervention during Leaders' Questions, I return to the issue of genomics and cancer. Today there 2,435 people on the waiting list at St. James's Hospital for hereditary cancer tests, including for breast cancer. Some of these patients are mothers of young families waiting over 18 months to access a potentially life-saving test. Cancer genetic counselling is essential to access these tests, but there are only six counsellors at St. James's Hospital and we fall short of the 20 needed to meet the international standards per capita. The demand for these services is increasing. We must act now to develop a comprehensive genomics strategy, establish a single national laboratory and ensure timely access to diagnostic services.

These steps can save many lives.

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