Fergal Browne (Fine Gael)

The cancer strategy was launched yesterday and I request a debate in the next couple of weeks on various aspects thereof. We have no idea of the cost or timescale for implementing the strategy. The Tánaiste made an announcement indicating the merger of cervical cancer screening and breast cancer screening, but we do not know the implications of such a move. Previous debates in the House have shown that roll-outs have been announced but have not happened around the country.

I am disappointed that there has been no initiative on prostate cancer screening. In every debate on health in the House many contributions have been made on the need for men to get regular health checks, yet on this issue the State has failed to implement a screening process. I do not understand why there cannot be a national screening process for prostate cancer. Many men in this House will, unfortunately, contract this in the course of their lives. Indeed it is somewhat topical in that our former Taoiseach, Charles Haughey, died today having fought prostate cancer for many years. I ask the Leader to arrange a debate and have the Tánaiste clarify to this House the costs and timescale for the implementation of the cancer strategy.