David Cullinane (Waterford, Sinn Fein)
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674. To ask the Minister for Health the estimated amount of additional funding provided for cancer screening services in budget 2021; the way in which the funding will be spent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31422/20]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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Budget 2021 provides for the continuation of the extraordinary public health measures and health and social care service supports and capacity introduced in 2020, measures that are essential to protect health care workers, vulnerable groups and the wider public from the worst impacts of COVID-19. This budget is not just about the response to COVID-19, it is also about building positive permanent change into our health service.

We know the importance of population screening programmes in that early detection can saves lives. The Government is committed to supporting the National Screening Service to ensure that we have world class screening programmes that the people of Ireland can have confidence in.

I am pleased to announce the approval of €10 million in funding for Cancer Screening in 2021. This funding will go a long way in supporting new developments within the screening services, including increasing capacity for screening and related services, and improving patient information and engagement. This investment represents a real commitment to improving healthcare for the women of Ireland. Details of the specific service improvements and investments will be set out in the HSE National Service Plan 2021.

I am committed to maximising the resumption of screening services in 2021, subject to the impact that COVID-19 may have in providing these services safely. I would re-iterate the important message that anyone who has concerns about symptoms to contact their GP.