Cavan-Monaghan TD Brendan Smith has called for urgent and sustained investment to deliver the National Cancer Strategy, asking the Minister for Health to commit at least €20 million in new recurrent annual funding from 2026 onwards for the National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP).
Deputy Smith said that sustained investment is vital to meet the needs of patients and to support the National Cancer Strategy’s goals, particularly in the face of rising demand and capacity challenges.
He told Northern Sound; "Cancer touches every family. Early diagnosis and treatment save lives, it’s that simple. We need full delivery of the National Cancer Strategy, backed by sustained funding. Cancer care must remain a top priority. I commend everyone working tirelessly in the fight against cancer, and I will continue working with the Minister to ensure the National Cancer Strategy is fully implemented."
In a series of parliamentary questions in Dáil Éireann to the Minister for Health, Deputy Smith called for accelerated efforts to meet target waiting times at rapid access clinics and for expansion of screening programmes in line with planned improvements.
The Minister’s response confirmed that performance monitoring is in place and acknowledged ongoing work by the HSE to enhance access for urgent referrals. She also outlined current reviews underway by the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) and the National Screening Advisory Committee (NSAC) regarding proposed expansions to the BreastCheck and BowelScreen programmes.
Deputy Smith welcomed these developments and reiterated his support for evidence-based improvements in screening and diagnostics. In response to Deputy Brendan Smith, the Minister confirmed that since 2017, over €105 million has been invested under the current National Cancer Strategy, with €23 million allocated for 2025. Deputy Smith welcomed the progress made to date and said it is essential to build on that commitment with predictable, long-term funding to ensure services are not only maintained, but strengthened.
