The information shared with Deputy David Cullinane by the National Screening Service outlines the number of people affected by the pause of screening.

Although cancer screening is not a diagnostic test, it is a central plank of Ireland’s cancer prevention and early detection strategy.

The Irish Cancer Society recognises that two of the three cancer screening programmes have resumed on a phased basis and we recognise the work that has been undertaken to prepare for the restart of BreastCheck.

Any additional capacity, physical space, staff or resourcing that is required by services along the screening chain, like endoscopy or surgery, should be provided to them.

Additional resourcing of diagnostic and treatment services is also required to safeguard the timely access to care for symptomatic patients. The lack of sustainable investment in many of these services over recent years, is making it more difficult to ensure that these patients can access important aspects of cancer care within recommended timeframes. The impact of the pandemic is being layered on top of long-term challenges and waiting lists that pre-existed Covid.

Government must commit to building a stronger, more sustainable cancer system that enables the provision of timely access to care for anyone who needs it. This is the hallmark of a cancer system that delivers for patients and the people who work in it.