Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 13 July 2023
785. Deputy Kathleen Funchion asked the Minister for Health if he will meet with the NCCP Alliance of Community Cancer Support Centres, CCSCs, to discuss the ongoing shortage in funding to the sector, which is having a knock-on effect on cancer patients, their families and the wider HSE acute hospital service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35247/23]
View answerThe National Cancer Strategy 2017-2026 recognises the important role played by Cancer Support Centres throughout the country in meeting the needs of cancer patients and their families.
The HSE's National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) works closely with a network of Community Cancer Support Centres, particularly in regard to the psycho-oncology model of care and the implementation of survivorship programmes for those living with and beyond cancer.
The NCCP Revised Best Practice Guidance for community cancer support centres was officially launched last May, as well as the Alliance of Community Cancer Support Centres which is a network of cancer support centres to advance the role of community cancer support.
The organisation in question has submitted a request to meet to my office. As with all requests submitted to my office, my officials will consider the appropriateness of meeting with them and I will revert to the organisation after considering the many competing demands on my diary.
