Maria Byrne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the fact that the national cancer strategy has been launched in the last few minutes following its approval by Cabinet. A great deal of money has been granted for the expansion of services. As Senator Swanick said, it is a proven fact that cancer is on the increase. While I welcome the fact that the age threshold for bowel screening has been brought down, I ask the Acting Leader to raise with the Minister the fact that screening under BreastCheck still commences at age 50. Previously, I called for the reduction of the age threshold relating to BreastCheck on a Commencement debate. I repeat that call now.

I attended the launch of the Retail Excellence Ireland pre-budget submission earlier and it was great to meet many new retailers who have opened businesses. I met one who has opened a shop in Limerick in the past couple of weeks. Retailers called today for a 3% reduction in VAT and I support them in that regard.