Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Social Democrats)
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1274. To ask the Minister for Health to address matters relating to a pilot treatment programme (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45260/24]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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As Minister for Health, I welcome the involvement of Irish-based experts in European clinical research initiatives aimed at exploring the feasibility of future screening programmes for gastric (TOGAS), prostate (PRAISE-U) and lung (SOLACE) cancers. The projects will add to our understanding of the early identification of these cancers and any evidence gained will no doubt add to the existing body of knowledge, thus helping to inform the consideration of new cancer screening programmes in Ireland.

I understand that the Lung Health Check pilot expects to commence work before the end of the year, having successfully gone through the standard research processes. In terms of funding, the Beaumont Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) project team submitted a grant application under the Women’s Health Task Fund earlier this year. This application was separate to RCSI’s other sources of funding, including the recently announced partnership with the Irish Cancer Society.

I am glad to confirm that this application for almost €100,000 has been approved. It will be used to support specific elements of the Lung Health Check pilot relating to addressing the unmet need to improve the outcomes for lung cancer amongst midlife and older women. This is an important factor in promoting equity.

Finally, it is necessary to highlight that my department is not coordinating the pilot projects and does not have a direct role in their operation. Therefore, I recommend that the deputy approach the researcher involved in the Lung Health Check pilot, part of the SOLACE project, for further information on its status.