Cathal Crowe (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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814. To ask the Minister for Health if he intends to implement the hereditary cancer model of care (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29979/24]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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In line with Recommendation 6 of the National Cancer Strategy 2017-2026 and to support the implementation of Recommendation 19 of the Strategy, a Model of Care for Hereditary Cancer was launched in 2023. The model of care will inform the development of services for the identification and management of people with an inherited cancer predisposition.

The Government’s commitment to implementation of the National Cancer Strategy is evidenced by significant investment in recent years. As Minister for Health, I have supported the National Cancer Strategy with substantial funding of €50m for cancer treatment and screening services. This funding has facilitated work in the area of hereditary cancer genetics, including:

• Recruitment of staff to cancer genetics services.
• Development of GP referral guidelines for breast family history.
• Completion of a needs assessment for those with a BRCA gene alteration.
• Development of online training for health care professionals delivering mainstreamed BRCA testing, i.e. genetic testing embedded in oncology services.
• Recommendations on universal tumour testing in certain types of cancer for possible Lynch Syndrome, an inherited condition which causes people to have a higher risk of developing certain colorectal cancers.