Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank Senator Ardagh. I reiterate that the national screening advisory committee will consider the updated European Council recommendation on cancer screening and advise the Minister for Health and his Department on this evidence. We are committed to the further expansion of screening in Ireland in accordance with internationally accepted criteria and best practice. I assure the Senator that Ireland will be actively engaged with the significant ongoing collaborative work at a European level to take forward the updated recommendation on cancer screening, including work on lung cancer screening. The Senator referenced some trials in Belgium and the Netherlands. That is why we have a structure to take the evidence. In addition to screening and diagnostics, we must ensure there is a focus on primary prevention around cessation of smoking. Radon control was also implemented as it has an impact on lung cancer specifically. It is important that is not forgotten as a cause. It is important to remind everyone that screening is for healthy people without symptoms. If someone becomes aware of symptoms or has concerns or worries, they should contact their GP who will arrange appropriate follow-up care.