Seán Kyne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the €33 million package for cancer support in the recent budget announced by the Minister for Health, Deputy Donnelly. It includes €9.4 million for the continued implementation of the national cancer strategy, which we have discussed in the House, €10 million for oncology drugs, €2 million for the provision of care for women using post-mastectomy products and €1.9 million for the expansion of bowel screening for those aged between 58 and 70. There is also €5.5 million for community support centres. These centres are very important. They provide support for individuals and families affected by cancer. They are staffed by psychologists, oncology nurses and a range of qualified cancer support specialists who provide support alongside medical treatment.

Cancer Care West and the cancer support centres came before the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Health earlier this year. They provide very important services free of charge. They were seeking funding of €5.5 million and multi-annual funding and an ongoing commitment funding. This has been agreed by the Minister, Deputy Donnelly, which is significant. There is a range of cancer support centres throughout the west, including the Mayo Cancer Support Association with which I am sure the Leader is familiar and involved. They are very important for those suffering from cancer. One in two of us will be diagnosed with cancer in our lifetime and, unfortunately, one of three of us will die from cancer. From engaging with Cancer Care West I know that at the initial diagnosis, when a person is traumatised and does not want to share with their family immediately, especially if there are young children, they seek support from the cancer centre. When people are going through their treatment or have finished their treatment they also seek emotional support. They do tremendous work and I am delighted with the announcement from the Minister, Deputy Donnelly.