Fiona O'Loughlin (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome our esteemed guests from the Canadian delegation. On behalf of the Fianna Fáil Party, I extend our sympathies on the sudden passing of our friend as well as our colleague, Michael O'Regan. Michael was always incredibly fair and just. In particular, he always saw the person behind the politician and always went out of his way to try to make sure that people were comfortable and treated well. We will all miss him in a huge way and, in particular, as the Leader said, his tweets.

The first issue I want to raise is post-mastectomy products. Yesterday, we heard information about this and I was very concerned and alarmed when I heard part of the Joe Duffy show. I wanted to learn a little bit more and see what I could find out before making a comment on this. I understand this comes under the community funded scheme and there is a budget of about €300 million per year, which is significant. These are hugely important supports for women who go through mastectomies.

I understand in the past there was a postcode lottery in respect of what a woman undergoing a mastectomy would receive. In some cases, she would receive one or two mastectomy bras and in other cases two bras and a swimsuit. We all need to aim for the higher end of that. Every support should be given, including a prosthesis for those who do not go undergo reconstructive surgery. In the past two hours, I have learned that the scheme will be extended on a universal basis. It is not just those on a medical card who will be able to avail of support. That is important and we need to welcome that. In terms of Sláintecare, we need to have such universal supports. That is a positive thing.

There will be standardisation across the country, which is positive. There should not be a postcode lottery. The major concern is the amount of funding that will go to each individual. I understand €60 is provided towards the cost of one mastectomy bra; and €200 for a single prosthesis and €400 for a double on a biannual basis. It is very clear that we need to provide more. Women undergoing this very traumatic surgery need all our help and support. The Minister, Deputy Donnelly, has been really good in terms of women's health and I believe he will do the right thing on this.

Secondary to that, I want to raise a similar situation regarding those suffering from alopecia who need a hairpiece or wig, something available to those affected by cancer treatment. I understand there is a suggestion that those who suffer from alopecia will not get a grant of €600. This is wrong and we need to appeal the Minister to make sure this is changed.