Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 September 2021
669. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Health the number of cancer deaths in each month for the past five years; and the cancer services that are fully operational or in which scanning, diagnostic and treatment services remain closed or partially closed, respectively. [43618/21]
View answerThe National Cancer Registry Ireland (NCRI) reports data on cancer mortality on an annual basis. The most recent data available (2015-2017) shows that, on average, there were 9,063 deaths per year from invasive cancer (4,799 in males, 4,264 in females) during the period 2015-2017, or 9,281 deaths per year from any tumour type.
The National Action Plan on Covid-19 identified the continued delivery of cancer care as a priority. Cancer services continue to operate in line with guidance issued by the HSE’s National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP), although at reduced capacity due to the need for appropriate physical distancing and infection control measures.
Funding of €12m has been allocated this year for the restoration of cancer services to 95% of 2019 (pre-Covid) levels. This funding is being used to support hospitals in addressing backlogs, extending clinic times, providing additional clinics, increasing diagnostic capacity and providing locum/temporary support. In addition, as part of Budget 2021, an extra €20m has been allocated for the continued implementation of the National Cancer Strategy this year. This funding is being used to facilitate developments across prevention, diagnosis, treatment and patient supports.
