I thank the Minister for coming to the House to address this matter, which relates to what consideration might be given to a radiotherapy unit for the south east. I know the Minister is familiar with this subject and the many concerns that have been expressed by people from the south east for some time.
Illness at any time for anyone is very traumatic. It obviously puts considerable pressure and stress not only on the person who is ill, but also on the family. This is particularly true in cases of cancer. People dread even hearing that word. At such a time the patient must be given every medical assistance available with the minimum of stress.
I understand that about 20% of all cancer patients in Ireland avail of radiotherapy but good medical practice suggests that this should be at least 60%. In the case of people suffering from breast cancer, it is understood that up to 75% could benefit from radiotherapy. In the south east only 48% of people are able to avail of that at the moment.
If people have to travel it places huge pressure not only on the patient but also on the family. It means having to travel a long distance for up to five days per week for a five-week period. In some cases people might stay over but that would be at huge expense and would mean being removed from the loving care of their family. That care is very important in keeping up patients' morale and they should be in an environment where there is somebody to whom they can turn. I know of cases where people travel five days a week and this adds to the trauma of having cancer and the worries that come with that. They hope they will make a full recovery and want to avail of every medical assistance. It is likely they will have to be driven long distances or travel by public transport. Having the treatment has a further impact on their bodies and on their morale.
There are good arguments in favour of siting a radiotherapy unit in the south east and in years to come it will be generally accepted that this should be available in close proximity to where the patient lives. At the moment we are dealing with a new situation and certain parameters have to be established. These parameters should be pushed out as far and as quickly as possible in this case.
A detailed submission has already been made to the Department and a delegation seeking the radiotherapy unit has met the Minister. I call on the Minister to update us as to progress on this matter. I do not have to make a case for a humane approach particularly to the Minister of State, Deputy Moffatt, because from his medical experience he is well aware of the points I am making today. I ask him to consider the main points made by the health board and the additional contribution I am making today. I hope the Minister will be able to give a positive response to the points I have made, if not today then in the near future.
