Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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I am fully committed to supporting our population screening programmes which are a valuable part of our health service, enabling early treatment and care for many people, and improving the overall health of our population.

BreastCheck, the National Breast Screening Programme, currently invites women aged 50 to 69 years at regular periods to have a routine mammogram. Under commitments in the Programme for Government, BreastCheck eligibility has been expanded to women aged 69 years since 2021. The Programme for Government also commits to expanding the age range for BowelScreen to those aged 55 to 74 and the HSE has recently commenced expansion to those aged 59, in addition to the current age range of 60 to 69.

In response to the Deputy's question, I will highlight that any decisions about further changes in cancer screening, including further extension of the age ranges, will be made on the advice of the National Screening Advisory Committee (NSAC). This independent expert group considers and assesses evidence in a robust and transparent manner, and against internationally accepted criteria. It is important we have rigorous processes in place to ensure our screening programmes are effective, quality assured and operating to safe standards, and that the benefits of screening outweigh the harms.

I would stress that careful consideration must be given to any proposed expansion of Ireland’s screening programmes and that this process must be afforded the necessary amount of time to complete. This includes ensuring that decisions are made based on internationally accepted criteria and scientific rigour.

In this regard, I am pleased to report that the Committee is already progressing work to consider the further expansion of our cancer screening programmes and has asked HIQA to evaluate the evidence for the further expansion of the age range eligibility for both the BowelScreen and BreastCheck programmes.

The Committee holds Annual Calls, which invite all stakeholders, including members of the public, HSE and other medical professionals, to make proposals for the introduction of new population-based screening programmes or changes to existing programmes in Ireland. The Committee plans to launch its third Annual Call before the end of the year, and information will be posted on the Committee's website www.nsacommittee.ie with details on the submission process.

Finally, I would like to emphasise the importance of every woman being breast aware, regardless of whether or not they are eligible for or attend for screening. This means knowing

what is normal for them so that if any unusual change occurs, they will recognise it. If a person has any concerns or symptoms concerning their breasts, they should not attend screening and should instead contact their GP who will give them the appropriate advice.