Ann Ormonde (Fianna Fail)

I commend the Irish Cancer Society, especially my ex-colleague who is one of the key persons in spearheading how to deal with cancer by way of an awareness campaign in terms of leaflets and reaching out to schools, hospitals and doctors. Everyone in society has a role to play, but the Irish Cancer Society has created that role for all of us to make that happen. More than ever, the big C, as it is known, is a big dread in society. However, it should not be so because it can be prevented. It is all about preventative medicine and how we create a proper diet and de-stress people in society. These are areas in which we all have a role in terms of prevention.

Today is national no smoking day, and smoking is a significant factor contributing to cancer. We need to hold daffodil day and pink ribbon day and to issue leaflets. We need to keep stating that it need not be the dread of society. We will talk this down. Cancer can be cured. There are examples of people with different types of cancer and we know of significant success stories. We seem to dwell on those who are not successful, but they are a small percentage.

With the Irish Cancer Society, all Members, along with those in schools, hospitals and other walks of life, should promote a prevention campaign not to be afraid of cancer. Health is the most important issue for our nation. We all have a role. I commend those participating in this awareness campaign and the Irish Cancer Society on promoting it.