Fergal Browne (Fine Gael)

In 1997, the full implementation of the national cancer strategy, including centres of excellence in Dublin, Cork, Galway and eight regional centres, was promised in the Fianna Fáil manifesto. By 2001 its full implementation had been watered-down. The Fianna Fáil manifesto stated it would implement, as a matter of urgency, cervical smear testing for GMS patients for screening as well as diagnostic purposes. It also stated programmes for breast and cervical cancer screening would be extended nationally. The national cancer strategy stated that services at local, regional and national levels would be agreed by end 2003. It also stated that a revised implementation plan would be published by end 2002. In June 2002 the agreed programme for Government between Fianna Fáil and the Progressive Democrats recognised the particular need to ensure that people in all parts of the country would have reasonable access to cancer services and stated that it would ensure this objective would be achieved.

As other speakers said, BreastCheck is not available nationwide so this idea of a national programme is a bit of a mockery. Where one lives can be a significant factor in one's treatment for cancer. Cervical screening is not available nationwide and we have not learned from the great experience in the Limerick area. Many specialists have left their posts. For example, I believe in Cork two years ago, a leading specialist left his post due to frustration with the system. I understand Senator White's criticism of the Government and perhaps of previous Ministers.

I accept Senator Minihan's point about people living longer as a result of which the rate of cancer increases. Unfortunately, cancer affects all age groups and that is why it is regrettable the Government included an age limit in its amendment to the motion. Unfortunately, we all know people who got cancer in their 20s, 30s and 40s. A relation of mine who got cancer was lucky he was able to travel from Carlow to Dublin by train each day. One might only get cancer treatment for one or two minutes per day but if one lives a distance from the hospital, must commute, feels nauseous following treatment and perhaps is incontinent, it can have a significant effect. That is why the best facilities should be available to people being treated for cancer. People should have the option of staying close to the hospital.

I helped a person in Carlow who did not have a medical card. We got him a medical card and an allowance so that he could stay in bed and breakfast accommodation close to the hospital. He was not able to afford to stay in Dublin in a hotel and he did not have any relatives in the city. Obviously, he was not in a position physically to travel to and from Carlow each day. He made a great recovery as his treatment was successful. We need to consider the rights of patients who do not have family or transport. They should be entitled to a subsidy or assistance to make their treatment less painful and more comfortable.

Much good work has been done. The smoking ban has been a great success and it will have had a major impact in 30 years time when we debate this issue. Hopefully, we will see a reduction in the incidence of cancer.

Exercise is a key issue. Yesterday on the Order of Business, many Senators spoke about the great sporting successes last week, including the successes of the Irish rugby team, Derval O'Rourke from Cork at the World Indoor Championships and Irish racehorses at Cheltenham. I was going to point out that we have major problems in this country. As far as I know, the athlete from Cork had to get a part-time job as she was not able——