asked the Minister for Health the plans; if any, he has for Irish participation in the "Europe Against Cancer" campaign; and if he will make a statement detailing these plans.
Written Answers - Europe Against Cancer Campaign.
24.
In June 1985 in Milan and in December 1985 in Luxembourg the Heads of State and of Government stressed the importance of launching a European programme to fight cancer. On 7 July 1986 a resolution was adopted by the council laying down the outline of a European programme of action against cancer. This programme involves a total of 74 specific actions in the area of cancer prevention which it is intended to carry out by 1989. The detailed proposed actions are in the following areas; a campaign against tobacco; improvements in nutrition; protection against carcinogenic agents; systematic screening and early diagnosis, European code against cancer; information and health education in the prevention of cancer; training of health professions; research to improve the prevention screening and detection of cancer; research on cancer therapy and fundamental cancer research. I participated in a Council of Health Ministers of the EC in May 1987 which agreed upon one aspect of the "Europe Against Cancer" programme. This relates to the "European Code Against Cancer" which will form the basis of information and education activities throughout Europe, in this area, for the duration of the programme.
My Department is continuing to participate with the EC Commission in the further development of the "Europe Against Cancer" programme.
I hope that this programme will have an impact on preventable cancers.